In situ formation of few-layered MoS₂@N-doped carbon network as high performance anode materials for sodium-ion batteries

Molybdenum sulfide (MoS₂) has become a promising anode material for sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) due to its unique two-dimensional layered structure and high theoretical capacity. However, the poor electrical conductivity and unceasing volume change of MoS₂ electrode during charge/discharge process will result in its poor rate performance and rapid capacity fading. In this work, few-layered MoS₂@N-doped carbon network (F-MoS₂@NCN) was synthesized through a facile freeze drying and annealing process. The N-doped carbon network could effectively improve the charge transport ability and accommodate the volume change of MoS₂, while the few-layered MoS₂ structure could also shorten the Na⁺ diffusion pathway and improves its diffusion mobility during cycling process. Benefiting from the synergetic effects between N-doped carbon network and few-layered MoS₂, F-MoS₂@NCN could maintain a high reversible capacity of 354.0 mAh g⁻¹ at 50 mA g⁻¹ after 100 cycles and deliver a reversible capacity of 298.7 mAh g⁻¹ at a current density of 1000 mA g⁻¹. This work should provide new insights into MoS₂-based anode materials for SIBs.