An adsorption-catalysis bifunctional MoS2/Mo@rGO host material for lithium–sulfur power batteries

Abstract

The shuttle effect of lithium polysulfides (LiPSs) and sluggish kinetics have emerged as significant barriers to further development of lithium–sulfur batteries. Developing cathode host materials with both adsorption capability and catalytic activity is considered a promising solution. Herein, a MoS₂/Mo@reduced graphene oxide (rGO) host material is introduced. This multivalent MoS₂–Mo composite generates numerous crystalline defects, providing ample active sites that enhance the ability to adsorb and catalytically convert LiPSs. The conductive network of rGO serves as a robust foundation for rapid electron transfer and ion diffusion. At 0.3C, the MoS₂/Mo@rGO-S electrode achieves a discharge specific capacity of 1309 mA h g⁻¹, with a capacity retention of 84.2% after 150 cycles. With an ultra-high sulfur loading of 540 mg, the specific capacity of the MoS₂/Mo@rGO-S pouch cell reaches 1019 mA h g⁻¹, demonstrating a commendable capacity retention of 79.4% after 60 cycles. A large drone powered by MoS₂/Mo@rGO-S achieves a flight time of 237 s, significantly exceeding the 136 s achieved by MoS₂@rGO-S. This work provides a new perspective for the exploration of adsorption-catalysis synergistic host materials for lithium–sulfur batteries.