Rational Design of Three-Layered TiO2@Carbon@MoS2 Hierarchical Nanotubes for Enhanced Lithium Storage

Here we demonstrate the rational design and synthesis of three-layered TiO₂@carbon@MoS₂ hierarchical nanotubes for anode applications in lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). Through an efficient step-by-step strategy, ultrathin MoS₂ nanosheets are grown on nitrogen-doped carbon (NC) coated TiO₂ nanotubes to achieve the TiO₂@NC@MoS₂ tubular nanostructures. This smart design can effectively shorten the diffusion length of Li⁺ ions, increase electric conductivity of the electrode, relax volume variation of electrode materials upon cycling, and provide more active sites for electrochemical reactions. Owing to these structural and compositional features, the hierarchical TiO₂@NC@MoS₂ nanotubes manifest remarkable lithium storage performance with good rate capability and long cycle life.

Hierarchical TiO₂@carbon@MoS₂ tubular-like nanostructures are rationally synthesized via an efficient multistep route. The unique architecture and composition of this nanohybrid can effectively improve electric conductivity, promote transport kinetics of Li⁺ ions, and buffer volume variation upon cycling. With these benefits, the nanohybrid electrode manifests enhanced electrochemical properties as an anode material for lithium-ion batteries.

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