THIN-FILM CRYSTALLINE SNO2-LITHIUM ELECTRODES

Crystalline SnO2 thin films have been investigated as possible negativ e electrodes for lithium-ion batteries. The films have been cycled ele ctrochemically vs. lithium and shown reversible capacity as high as 50 0 mAh/g over more than 100 cycles. The substantial irreversibility dur ing the first cycle can be explained by the formation of metallic tin and amorphous lithium oxide. This last phase probably plays an importa nt role in allowing the thin-film electrode to contract and expand dur ing the cycling process.