A graphene-like MoS2/graphene nanocomposite as a highperformance anode for lithium ion batteries

In this article, we report on the preparation of a graphene-like MoS2/graphene nanocomposite by hydrolysis of lithiated MoS2 (LiMoS2) and its application as the anode material for lithium ion batteries. When the mass ratio of graphene/LiMoS2 is 15/100, the obtained composite (MoS2/GNS-15) displays a flower-like architecture composed of exfoliated nanosheets. The structure analyses further demonstrate that graphene-like MoS2 is supported on the surface of graphene nanosheets (GNS) and some of the interlayer spacings of MoS2 are enlarged with the intercalation of graphene. The reversible capacity of the MoS2/GNS-15 nanocomposite is ∼1400 mA h g−1 in the initial cycle and remains 1351 mA h g−1 after 200 cycles at 100 mA g−1. Furthermore, the capacity can reach 591 mA h g−1 even at a high current density of 1000 mA g−1. The excellent electrochemical performance of MoS2/GNS-15 is due to the synergetic effect between highly conductive GNS and graphene-like MoS2. On one hand, the GNS matrix can offer two-dimensional conductive networks and effectively suppress the aggregation of layered MoS2 during the lithiation/delithiation process. On the other hand, graphene-like MoS2 with an enlarged gallery can ensure the flooding of the electrolyte, provide more active sites and lower the diffusion energy barrier of Li+ ions.