Three-Dimensional Transition Metal Dichalcogenide Helical Nanorod Arrays for High-Performance Aluminum-Ion Batteries

Abstract

The rechargeable aluminum-ion battery (AIB) is a promising candidate for next-generation high-performance batteries, but its cathode materials require more development to improve their capacity and cycling life. We have demonstrated the growth of MoSe2 three-dimensional helical nanorod arrays on a polyimide substrate by the deposition of Mo helical nanorod arrays followed by a low-temperature plasma-assisted selenization process to form novel cathodes for AIBs. The growth MoSe2 HNRAs on PI substrates as the cathode in AIBs with extremely high performance was realized by glancing angle deposition followed by a low-temperature plasma-assisted selenization process. These binder-free MoSe2 HNRA-based AIBs showed a specific capacity of 753 mAh g–1 at a current density of 0.3 A g–1 and an ultralong cycling life of at least 1000 cycles even at a higher current density. Ex situ Raman, XPS, and TEM techniques were applied to the MoSe2 HNRA cathode at the different discharge–charge statuses and confirmed the reversible conversion–intercalation hybrid reactions. Furthermore, plane-interdigital flexible and stretchable MoSe2 HNRA-based AIBs were produced, revealing excellent flexibility and stretchability. The AIBs with MoSe2 HNRAs as cathodes exhibited a high capacity and cycle life, making it possible for these AIBs used in future applications of energy-storage devices in flexible and wearable electronics.