Core-shell Cu@Cu6Sn5 nanowires with three-dimensional structure have been successfully synthesized via an electrodeposition process, using Cu(OH)(2) nanorods prepared by anodization as the substrate. Different temperatures have been employed to heat-treat Sn-Cu composites. After heat-treated at 80 C, strong adherence of the active material Cu6Sn5 to the current collector is achieved, and the crystal structure becomes more stable, thus delivering best cycling performance of 0.162 mAh cm(-2) after 200 cycles at 1 C. Furthermore, superior rate capability (as high as 20C) is also obtained. Crown Copyright (C) 2011 Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.