The structural and morphological evolution of cobalt-tin (Co-Sn) metal composite oxides, synthesized by the decomposition of CoSn(OH)6 precursor at various temperatures, were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). The precursor was also studied by thermal analysis (TG/DTA). The electrochemical performance of nanosized Co-Sn composite metal oxides was investigated to evaluate their suitability for use as anode materials for Li ion batteries. The results revealed that the samples heat-treated at low temperatures consisted of amorphous CoSnO3, and the samples heat-treated at high temperatures comprised crystalline Co2SnO4 and SnO2. The charge capacity and cyclability were sensitive to the structure and composition of the electrode active materials. The samples heat-treated in the phase transition temperature range exhibited relatively worse electrochemical properties.
