Fabrication of layered Ti3C2 with an accordion-like structure as a potential cathode material for high performance lithium–sulfur batteries

Abstract

In order to enhance the long-term stability of sulfur cathodes used in rechargeable high energy lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries, layered Ti₃C₂ (L-Ti₃C₂) with an accordion-like structure was prepared by exfoliating Ti₃AlC₂ in 40% hydrofluoric acid. The L-Ti₃C₂ was then loaded with sulfur (57.6 wt%) to form a S/L-Ti₃C₂ composite. The composite was then used as a cathode material for Li–S batteries, which showed a high initial discharge capacity of 1291 mA h g⁻¹ and an excellent capacity retention of 970 mA h g⁻¹ after 100 cycles. The results suggest that two-dimensional carbides, similar to graphene and/or graphite, are a promising material for a wide range of applications in Li–S batteries and other electrochemical energy storage devices.