Ultrasmall MoS2 embedded in carbon nanosheets-coated Sn/SnOx as anode material for high-rate and long life Li-ion batteries

Abstract

A Sn/SnO_x/MoS₂/C composite material with superior performance was developed as an anode for lithium-ion batteries via a facile and scalable ball-milling method using a three-dimensional (3D) self-assembly of NaCl particles as a template. In the constructed architecture, carbon nanosheets avoided the direct exposure of encapsulated Sn/SnO_x nanoparticles to the electrolyte and preserved the structural and interfacial stability of the nanoparticles, protecting them from volume expansion during the charge/discharge process. The MoS₂ particles, uniformly dispersed on the carbon nanosheets, facilitate an efficient ion transport and ensure structural durability as a particle reinforcing agent. When used as an anode material in lithium-ion batteries, the as-prepared Sn/SnO_x/MoS₂/C composite exhibit a high rate performance and long cyclic stability, even at a high current density of 3 A g⁻¹ (specific capacity of 725.3 mA h g⁻¹ after 800 cycles). This simple fabrication method and the excellent electrochemical performance demonstrates the potential use of the Sn/SnO_x/MoS₂/C composite as an anode material for high-performance lithium-ion batteries.