3D Printing of Tungstate Anion Modulated 1T‐MoS2 Composite Cathodes for High‐Performance Lithium–Sulfur Batteries

Abstract

AbstractLithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries can offer high capacity and energy‐density, but face challenges like low conductivity, lithium polysulfides (LiPSs) shuttling, and limited reaction kinetics. In this study, the electronic configuration of Mo 4d orbital in MoS2 is modulated through a one‐step method involving tungstate anion (WO42−) modulation to form a stable 1T‐MoS2/carbon composite (1T‐W‐MoS2/C). When WO42− is introduced, it causes a transfer of electrons to Mo in 2H‐MoS2, resulting in the generation of a stable 1T phase. In the composite, 1T‐MoS2 nanosheets exhibit remarkable electronic conductivity, hydrophilicity, and catalytic activity, facilitating the LiPSs adsorption and Li+ transport. Meanwhile, the WO42− modulation can create abundant adsorption/catalytic sites with defects on the basal surface and edges of MoS2, facilitating the efficient catalysis of LiPSs conversion. Furthermore, the 3D‐printed electrodes without utilization of binders and current collectors can ensure high mass loading and promote ion diffusion and electrolyte penetration. Theoretical and experimental results confirm that 1T‐W‐MoS2/C can catalyze LiPSs conversion, suppress LiPSs shuttling, and enhance sulfur reaction kinetics. Therefore, the 3D‐printed 1T‐W‐MoS2/C/S cathode exhibits a high initial capacity and excellent rate capability, achieving an areal capacity of 7.37 mAh cm−2 with a sulfur loading of 8.89 mg cm−2.