Multifunctional Carbon Layer Bridging TiO2 Nanotubes and MoS2 Nanosheets for Enhanced Lithium Storage

Abstract

This article ingeniously adopts a glucose-assisted hydrothermal method to bridge TiO₂ nanotubes and MoS₂ nanosheets with a multifunctional carbon layer (C), synthesizing three-dimensional (3D) TiO₂@C@MoS₂ composites. The multifunctional carbon layer bridges MoS₂ nanosheets and TiO₂ nanotubes by creating C–S and Ti–O–C chemical bonds, which not only reduces the mechanical stress of the composites during charge/discharge cycling and enhances the structural stability of the composites but also improves the overall conductivity of the composites. Furthermore, the one-dimensional (1D) TiO₂ nanotubes act as a reliable skeleton for the growth of MoS₂ nanosheets, effectively shortening the transport path for ions/electrons. The MoS₂ nanosheets on the surface contribute to an increase in active sites for electrochemical reactions, thus bringing about faster charge transfer within the material. As a result, the overall electrochemical properties of the composites are improved. The prepared TiO₂@C@MoS₂ composites show up to an initial discharge specific capacity of 881.77 mAh g^–1, sustaining a capacity retention of 81% even after 200 cycles at 0.2 A g^–1. The outstanding specific capacity and impressive cyclic stability are ascribed to the unique synergistic effect of the multifunctional carbon layer bridging TiO₂ nanotubes and MoS₂ nanosheets. This preparation offers a perspective for the synthesis of other composite materials, broadening the horizons of lithium-ion battery anode research.