Ultra small few layer MoS2 embedded into three-dimensional macro-micro-mesoporous carbon as a high performance lithium ion batteries anode with superior lithium storage capacity.

Molybdenum disulfide (MoS 2) exhibits additional reversible capacity beyond their theoretical value is promising candidates for electrodes of lithium ion batteries (LIBs). However, the sluggish kinetics, low conductivity and self-aggregating of MoS 2 nanosheets hinder the practical application. Herein, ultra small few layer MoS 2 combined with carbon hybrids of macro-micro-mesoporous structure (MoS 2 /MmC) is prepared via a simple and scalable liquid-solid-gas three-phase interface self-assembly process. When employed as anode for lithium ion batteries, such a clever structure possesses superior performance: exhibits discharge capacity of 938 mAh g−1 at current density of 200 mA g−1 following 100 cycles, and reveals reversible capacity of 843 mAh g−1 at current density of 2 A g−1 after 1000 cycles. The excellent performance is attributed to the rational design of electrode structure: ultra small few layer MoS 2 nanosheets offer abundant active sites, while the 3D porous architectures are in favor of enhancing the mass-transportation and alleviating the volume expansion. These structural features greatly enhance surface reaction kinetics and facilitate the charge transport. Furthermore, Ex-situ XRD, FESEM are used to confirm the phase transformation of MoS 2 /MmC and verify the structure stability during the cycling. It is believed that our work opens up a new possible route for the industrial production of MoS 2 based anode materials. Ultra small few layer MoS2 combined with carbon hybrids of macro-micro-mesoporous structure (MoS2/MmC) is prepared via a simple and scalable liquid-solid-gas three-phase interface self-assembly process. When employed as anode for lithium ion batteries, such a clever structure possesses superior performance: exhibits discharge capacity of 938 mAh g-1 at current density of 200 mA g-1 following 100 cycles, and reveals reversible capacity of 843 mAh g-1 at current density of 2 A g-1 after 1000 cycles. Image 1 • Ultra small few layer MoS 2 had been synthesized by a simple and scalable method. • Abundant active sites of MoS 2 /MmC derived from rich edges can enhance lithium storage capacity. • The feature of MoS 2 /MmC combine with MoS 2 nanosheets and macro-micro-mesoporous carbon boosting the LIBs performance. • Ex-situ XRD was used to explore the essence of the excellent electrochemical properties. • We conceived the structural transformation mechanism of MoS 2 /MmC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]