Few-layer MoS2 nanosheets incorporated into hierarchical porous carbon for lithium-ion batteries

In order to overcome the serious stacking and poor conductivity of graphene-like MoS2 nanosheets, we have developed the synthesis of few-layer MoS2 nanosheets incorporated into biomass -derived hierarchical porous carbon frameworks (labeled as MoS2/C hybrids) utilizing the strong water-absorbing power of auricularia from its inherent rich porous structure. The as-obtained MoS2/C hybrids, when applied as lithium-ion batteries anode materials, show an improved specific capacity of 707.4 mA h(-1) compared with the commercial MoS2 nanosheets (580.2 mA h g(-1)) and the corresponding hierarchical porous carbon (215.5 mA h g(-1)). More meaningfully, they possess an impressive cycle life, almost without capacity fading even after 500 cycles at 1600 mA g(-1). The intriguing performance is mainly attributed to the well-dispersion of few-layer MoS2 nanosheets into hierarchical porous carbon. We believe this work will provide a new insight on the design and synthesis of novel carbon-based electrode materials for potential applications in lithium-ion batteries and other clean energy devices. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.