One Precursor, Two Different Outcomes: SnO-Graphite Composite and Anion-Doped SnO₂ with Ester Surface Functionality

Abstract

The technological importance of SnO 2 and SnO has invited scientists to explore various aspects, including their synthesis in the nanosize regime, surface functionalization, and composite formation. In the present work, a binuclear Sn 2 -EDTA complex has been demonstrated to produce a SnO-graphite composite and C, N-codoped SnO 2 nanocrystals with ester functionality in quantitative yields by thermal and solvothermal dissociation processes. The products were characterized extensively. While SnO in the SnO-graphite composite exhibited tetragonal symmetry, graphitic carbon had defects. The composite had 12 wt % of graphitic carbon. The role of the SnO-graphite composite as an anode in lithium-ion batteries (LIB) has been evaluated. Solvothermal dissociation of the Sn 2 -EDTA complex in a propylene glycol medium yielded nanocrystalline SnO 2 with yellow color. Agglomerated crystallites had ester functionality on their surfaces. The surface functionality was thermally stable up to 200 °C, and its complete removal yielded tetragonal white-colored SnO 2 . Co-doping of carbon and nitrogen in yellow SnO 2 reduced its optical band gap (2.9 eV). Despite the negative surface charge of the functionalized SnO 2 , its affinity to rapidly adsorb anionic azo dyes (Congo red and Eriochrome black T) from aqueous solutions has been validated. Following pseudo-second-order kinetics, adsorption data analysis revealed chemisorption as the primary driving force in this process.

Strengthening Sn-MOF with SiO2/GeO2 Nanoparticles for Synergistically Enhanced High Capacity and Cycle Stability

“…To support mobile power supply, electric vehicles, energy storage, and environmental protection, the development of high-energy-density anodes is a critical component of the urgent need for new-generation battery technology. − While titanium-based lithium-ion battery anodes offer high safety, excellent rate performance, and exceptional cycling stability, − they have a relatively high operating voltage and lower theoretical capacity. Tin-based materials, on the other hand, have been widely studied due to their high theoretical specific capacity. − However, tin-based materials experience a huge volume expansion (∼260%) during Li alloying and dealloying, leading to the pulverization of active materials. − Several effective strategies and techniques, such as compositing with carbon materials, − Sn-based alloys and compounds, − and novel nanostructures, − have been developed to improve the electrochemical performance of Tin-based anode materials.…”