PbSbO2Cl@C nanocomposite is synthesized via a simple one-step hydrothermal route and tested as a lithium storage material. The as-prepared PbSbO2Cl@C nanocomposite presents a core-shell structure composing of PbSbO2Cl nanoparticles (20-200 nm) as inner core and amorphous carbon coating layer as outer shell. The core-shell structure of PbSbO2Cl@C can restrict the structural breakdown of nanocomposite with carbon coating layer on the surface, and avoid the pulverization and aggregation of PbSbO2Cl nanoparticles during repeated lithiation-delithiation process. Moreover, the induction of carbon layer can also improve the electronic conductivity and reduce the charge transfer resistance of PbSbO2Cl. As a result, PbSbO2Cl@C nanocomposite exhibits improved electrochemical performances compared to pristine PbSbO2Cl. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.