Intralayered Ostwald Ripening-Induced Self-Catalyzed Growth of CNTs on MXene for Robust Lithium-Sulfur Batteries.

Abstract

The distinguishable physicochemical properties of MXenes render them attractive in electrochemical energy storage. However, the strong tendency to self-restack owing to the van der Waals interactions between the MXene layers incurs a massive decrease in surface area and blocking of ions transfer and electrolytes penetration. Here, in situ generated Ti3 C2 Tx MXene-carbon nanotubes (Ti3 C2 Tx -CNTs) hybrids are reported via low-temperature self-catalyzing growth of CNTs on Ti3 C2 Tx nanosheets without the addition of any catalyst precursors. With combined spectroscopic studies and theoretical calculation results, it is certified that the intralayered Ostwald ripening-induced Ti3 C2 Tx nanomesh structure contributes to the uniform precipitation of ultrafine metal Ti catalysts on Ti3 C2 Tx , thus giving rise to the in situ CNTs formation on the surface of Ti3 C2 Tx with high integrity. Taking advantages of intimate electrolyte penetration, unobstructed 3D Li+ /e transport, and rich electroactive sites, the Ti3 C2 Tx -CNTs hybrids are confirmed to be ideal 3D scaffolds for accommodating sulfur and regulating the polysulfides conversion for high-loaded lithium-sulfur batteries.