PPy‐encapsulated SnS₂ Nanosheets Stabilized by Defects on a TiO₂ Support as a Durable Anode Material for Lithium‐Ion Batteries

Nanostructured‐alloy‐type anodes have received great interest for high‐performance lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). However, these anodes experience huge volume fluctuations during repeated lithiation/delithiation and are easily pulverized and subsequently form aggregates. Herein, an efficient method to stabilize alloy‐type anodes by creating defects on the surface of the metal oxide support is proposed. As a demonstration, PPy‐encapsulated SnS₂ nanosheets supported on defect‐rich TiO₂ nanotubes were produced and investigated as an anode material for LIBs. Both experimental results and theoretical calculations demonstrate that defect‐rich TiO₂ provides more chemical adhesions to SnS₂ and discharge products, compared to defect‐poor TiO₂, and then effectively stabilizes the electrode structure. As a result, the composite exhibits an unprecedented cycle stability. This work paves the way to designing durable and active nanostructured‐alloy‐type anodes on oxide supports.