MoSSe-graphene based sandwiched nanolayer hybrid as high-performance lithium sulfur-selenium (LiSSe) battery cathodes

Rechargeable lithium batteries have demonstrated highly promising storage of energy systems because of their advantageous characteristics such as high energy density, extended cycle life, increased output power, and improved safety. To meet the ever-increasing high energy demands for powering hybrid and electric vehicles, it is necessary to develop electrode materials that possess high capacity and excellent rate capability. Hence, this work focuses on a MoSSe-Graphene based sandwiched nanolayer hybrid electrode material (MoSSe-Gr) for efficient Lithium-sulfur-selenium batteries applications. The MoSSe-Gr was synthesized through the solvothermal route, and subsequent calcination of the material at 800 °C under an inert atmosphere. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-aray diffratometry (XRD), high-resolution-transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Raman shifts examinations reveal that graphitization of organic solvent from the precursor solution entrapped in the MoSSe interlayer spacing took place during calcination process, forming MoSSe-Graphene hybrid sandwich nanolayers. When employed as a cathodic material in a LiSSe battery, the hybrid sandwiched layers exhibited high-speed charging capability and extended cycle life. Specifically, the MoSSe-Gr material demonstrated a high-rate capability, delivering high capacities of 806.58/100, 668.42/500, 585.83/1000, 409.25/5000, and 284.16/10000 mAh/g/mA/g.