A phase-tuned layered 1T W-MoS2/PEDOT:PSS hybrid: functional engineering towards self-binding supercapacitor cathodes

Abstract

A layered two-dimensional 1T-molybdenum disulfide (MoS₂), substitutionally doped with tungsten (W), and incorporated with poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS), was synthesized via a one-pot hydrothermal method to form W_xMo_1−xS₂/PEDOT:PSS hybrid composites as self-binding electrodes for supercapacitors. The optimal doping and hybrid construction of W_0.1Mo_0.9S₂/PEDOT:PSS (10W-MS/P) increase the interlayer spacing and stabilize the metallic 1T phase, which enhance the electrical conductivity and structural durability in an electrochemical analysis under a three-electrode configuration using 1 M H₂SO₄ electrolyte. 10W-MS/P exhibits a high specific capacitance (C_m) of 845.14 F g⁻¹ and an areal capacitance (C_a) of 4.73 F cm⁻² at 1 A g⁻¹ and the electrode also demonstrates excellent stability, retaining 89% of its capacitance after 10 000 cycles. The asymmetric coin cell supercapacitor (ASC-CC), fabricated using a self-binding cathode of 10W-MS/P, delivers an energy density of ≈6.53 Wh kg⁻¹ and a power density of ≈79.64 W kg⁻¹. After 20 000 continuous cycles, the device retains 75% of capacitance and it reveals that the hybrid material possesses significant potential as an efficient and durable electrode for next-generation energy storage applications.