SnO2/multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) composites were prepared by the solvothermal method and subsequent heat treatment at 360 degrees C. The samples were characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Results on the higher SnO2 content composite sample indicate that a uniform layer of SnO2 nanocrystals with crystal size around 5 nm was deposited on the surface of the carbon nanotubes. The composite demonstrates a reversible lithium storage capacity of 709.9 mAh g(-1) at the first cycle and excellent cyclic retention up to 100 cycles as anode for lithium ion batteries. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.