Unveiling the effects of different component ratios on the structure and electrochemical properties of MoS2/TiO2 composites

In this study, a composite material comprising of MoS2 and TiO2 was designed, and the TiO2 content in the composite was systematically varied to enhance the rate capability and cycling performance of MoS2. The optimized composite structure (MT-3 with a mass ratio of MoS2 to TiO2 of 8:1) ensures stable connections between the flower-like MoS2 and TiO2 nanosheets through robust covalent Ti-O-S bonds, effectively enhancing the electrochemical reaction kinetics and thus improving lithium storage performance. Additionally, the incorporation of an appropriate amount of TiO2 alleviates the stacking of MoS2, increasing the number of electrochemically active sites. The specific capacities of MT-3 at current densities of 0.1, 0.5, 1, 2, and 5 A g-1 are 1172.9, 1039.3, 921.6, 864.9, and 696.5 mAh g-1, respectively. Furthermore, even after 100 cycles at 2 A g-1, it still maintains a high specific capacity of 694 mAh g-1, indicating excellent lithium storage performance. This synergistic strategy between MoS2 and TiO2 holds promise for the rational design of high-performance anode materials for LIBs.