Ge-doped 3D flower-like Cu2SnS3 structures for enhanced lithium-ion storage performance

Abstract

Development of advanced anode materials with high capacity and stable cycling performance is crucial for next-generation lithium-ion batteries. In this work, we report Ge-doped three-dimensional flower-like Cu<inf>2</inf>SnS<inf>3</inf> (Ge-CSS) microstructures synthesized via a solvothermal route. The introduction of Ge into the Cu?SnS? lattice effectively enhances electrical conductivity and lithium-ion transport, leading to superior electrochemical properties. The Ge-CSS electrode delivers a high initial discharge capacity of 796 mAh/g at 0.1 A/g with improved cycling stability, retaining 354 mAh/g after 100 cycles, and exhibits excellent rate capability, maintaining 74.09 % capacity as the current density increases from 0.1 to 2 A/g. Moreover, the reduced charge transfer resistance compared to undoped Cu<inf>2</inf>SnS<inf>3</inf> highlights the beneficial role of Ge incorporation. These findings demonstrate the potential of Ge-CSS microstructures as a promising anode material for high-performance lithium-ion batteries. © 2025 Elsevier Ltd