Synthesis of SnS/C nanofibers membrane as self-standing anode for high-performance sodium-ion batteries by a smart process

Abstract SnS/C nanofibers membrane (SnS/C NFM) has been synthesized by low-temperature vulcanization from SnO2/C nanofiber membrane (SnO2/C NFM), which is obtained via electrospinning using commercial nano SnO2 as raw material followed by high-temperature carbonization. This method not only forms the high conductivity and stable carbon fiber skeleton in high temperature but also avoids the losing of tin source. The self-standing SnS/C NFM shows outstanding electrochemical properties as anode for sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) without adding any conductive agent and binder. Additionally, it exhibits much better performance compared to SnO2/C NFM and nano SnO2 particles. After 200 cycles at 200 mA g−1, it can provide high capacity of 324 mA h g−1 (up to 84.8% capacity retention rate), and also display a good rate performance. Such superb electrochemical performance can be attributed to the interconnection of the 3D conductive network to enhance the electrical conductivity of SnS, and effectively suppress the aggregation of SnS particles during the cycling process. Therefore, the self-standing SnS/C NFM is considered as promise anode materials for sodium-ion batteries.