Abstract
A low-cost bio-mass-derived carbon substrate has been employed to synthesize MoS₂@carbon composites through a hydrothermal method. Carbon fibers derived from natural cotton provide a three-dimensional and open framework for the uniform growth of MoS₂ nanosheets, thus hierarchically constructing coaxial architecture. The unique structure could synergistically benefit fast Li-ion and electron transport from the conductive carbon scaffold and porous MoS₂ nanostructures. As a result, the MoS₂@carbon composites-when serving as anodes for Li-ion batteries-exhibit a high reversible specific capacity of 820 mAh·g(-1), high-rate capability (457 mAh·g(-1) at 2 A·g(-1)), and excellent cycling stability. The use of bio-mass-derived carbon makes the MoS₂@carbon composites low-cost and promising anode materials for high-performance Li-ion batteries.