Facile synthesis of hierarchical hollow MoS2 nanotubes as anode materials for high-performance lithium-ion batteries

Abstract

Hierarchical hollow MoS₂ nanotubes were successfully synthesized using Na₂MoO₄·2H₂O, MnCl₂·4H₂O and (NH₄)₂CS through a simple solvothermal reaction. The formation of hierarchical hollow MoS₂ nanotubes was based on the intermediate MnMoO₄, which was used as a self-sacrificed template. The hollow MoS₂ nanotubes exhibited improved reversibility and cycling performance compared with the solid MoS₂ when evaluated as anode materials for lithium-ion batteries. A high capacity of 727 mA h g⁻¹ could be retained after 100 cycles at a current density of 100 mA g⁻¹. The rate capability of the hollow MoS₂ nanotubes also improved. The hierarchical hollow MoS₂ nanotubes could still be maintained at 480 mA h g⁻¹ at a current density of 1000 mA g⁻¹. The enhanced lithium-ion storage performance of the hierarchical hollow MoS₂ nanotubes in terms of reversible capacity, cycling performance, and rate capability can be attributed to their hierarchical surface and hollow tube structure.