Vertically oriented MoS2 nanoflakes coated on 3D carbon nanotubes for next generation Li-ion batteries

Abstract

The advent of advanced electrode materials has led to performance enhancement of traditional lithium ion batteries (LIBs). We present novel binder-free MoS2 coated three-dimensional carbon nanotubes (3D CNTs) as an anode in LIBs. Scanning transmission electron microscopy analysis shows that vertically oriented MoS2 nanoflakes are strongly bonded to CNTs, which provide a high surface area and active electrochemical sites, and enhanced ion conductivity at the interface. The electrochemical performance shows a very high areal capacity of similar to 1.65 mAh cm(-2) with an areal density of similar to 0.35 mg cm(-2) at 0.5 C rate and coulombic efficiency of similar to 99% up to 50 cycles. The unique architecture of 3D CNTs-MoS2 is indicative to be a promising anode for next generation Li-ion batteries with high capacity and long cycle life.