Single-Pot Hydrothermal Synthesis, Characterization and Electrochemical Properties of SnO₂ Nanostructures

Nanostructured materials have gained significant interest in the field of science owing to their exceptional characteristics and efficacy in numerous fields. Tin oxide (SnO₂) shows potential as a material for energy storage purposes, namely in lithium-ion batteries. The electrochemical properties of this material make it a promising candidate for anode materials, allowing for effective storage and release of lithium ions during charging and discharging processes. Tin oxide's effective electrical conductivity enhances battery performance, making it a crucial constituent in the development of advanced and efficient energy storage technologies. This investigation into the electrochemical characteristics of tin oxide represents a significant advancement in the effort to enhance the efficacy and reliability of battery technology across several fields.<br/>In this research, we successfully produced tin dioxide (SnO₂) nanostructures inspired by sea-urchins by using a hydrothermal process strategy. The hydrothermal approach, known for its low cost and effectiveness, enables the specific development and distribution of tin dioxide nanoparticles, replicating the unique structure of sea-urchins.<br/>The growth of radially arranged rutile-SnO₂ nanostructures with a size range of 1.5-2 µm was confirmed by conducting an in-depth analysis using a variety of methods, such as x-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The combined results from these investigations have verified the formation of nanostructures with a high level of purity, that have a unique radial pattern. The nanostructures had a unique morphology consisting of separate nanorods, each measuring roughly 300 nm in length and with widths varying from 30 to 50 nm. The building of rutile-SnO₂ nanostructures exhibited a high degree of homogeneity and accuracy, as evidenced by the extensive characterization techniques. Interestingly, electrochemical experiments used to evaluate these nanostructures features revealed their remarkable reversible lithium storing ability. The nanostructures demonstrated a consistent and reversible lithium storage capacity of 590 mAh. g^-1, even after undergoing 30 cycles of charging and discharging. This demonstrates their potential as exceptional materials for lithium-ion battery applications.<br/>The controlled synthesis of radially ordered rutile-SnO₂ nanostructures with excellent electrochemical characteristics is demonstrated in this work, which offers significant insights into the process.<br/><br/>This project was funded by the National Plan for Science, Technology, and Innovation (MAARIFAH), King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Award Number (2-17-02-001-0053)