A hierarchical Cu7.2S4@C@MoS2 composite with superior lithium-ion storage properties

Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), a metal sulfide with a high theoretical capacity, is considered a potential alternative to traditional graphite anodes in lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). However, MoS2 is prone to agglomeration during the lithiation/delithiation process and has poor electrical conductivity, which limits its application. Herein, a composite of two-dimensional (2D) MoS2 nanosheets and three-dimensional (3D) Cu7.2S4 cubes was prepared by a self-sacrificing template method to alleviate the inherent defects of MoS2. The 3D Cu7.2S4 alleviates the agglomeration problem of MoS2 nanosheets, while the surface-covered carbon layer increases the structural stability of the material, collectively resulting in excellent electrochemical properties. As expected, when used as anode active material, the Cu7.2S4@C@MoS2 composite demonstrates excellent specific capacity of 1813.3 mA h g(-1) at 0.1 A g(-1) and shows superior cycling stability (702.4 mA h g(-1) after 1000 cycles at 1 A g(-1)), which is attributed to the unique structure combining 2D and 3D as well as the synergistic effect between different components. The study offers a novel approach for the expanded use of MoS2.