Fabrication of flower-like MoS2/TiO2 hybrid as an anode material for lithium ion batteries

Abstract

A three-dimensional (3D) flower-like MoS₂/TiO₂ nanohybrid was synthesized via a two-step hydrothermal method. It is found that the MoS₂/TiO₂ nanohybrid is assembled with MoS₂ nanosheets and TiO₂ nanoparticles. The TiO₂ nanoparticles are homogeneously dispersed on the MoS₂ nanosheets. Moreover, the MoS₂/TiO₂ nanohybrid displays excellent electrochemical performance with a high reversible capacity of 801 mA h g⁻¹ at a current density of 100 mA g⁻¹ after 50 cycles. It also demonstrates outstanding rate behavior with a reversible discharge capacity of 660 mA h g⁻¹ at a current density of 1000 mA g⁻¹ and retains a capacity of about 760 mA h g⁻¹ as the current density is returned back to 100 mA g⁻¹. Compared with MoS₂, the MoS₂/TiO₂ nanohybrid displays enhanced cycling stability and superior rate capability. The excellent electrochemical performance may be attributed to the favorable synergistic effect between MoS₂ and TiO₂. The TiO₂ particles may enhance the structure stability and shorten the transport distance of ions across the surface.