SnO2 nanosheets/g-C3N4 composite with improved lithium storage capabilities

Abstract

Tin dioxide (SnO2) nanosheets/graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) composite was prepared by a hydrothermal method using mercapto acetic acid as the morphology directing agent in an acidic medium. The as obtained composite was characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscope, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy; the results of this study show that in the composite, SnO2 nanosheets with a thickness in the range similar to 20-25 nm dispersed well on the g-C3N4. The lithium storage capability of the composite was investigated. The cycling performance of the composite was improved and is believed to be attributed by the presence of g-C3N4 support. (C) 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.