Fabrication of layered Ti ₃ C ₂ with an accordion-like structure as a potential cathode material for high performance lithium–sulfur batteries

In order to enhance the long-term stability of sulfur cathodes used in rechargeable high energy lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries, layered Ti3C2 (L-Ti3C2) with an accordion-like structure was prepared by exfoliating Ti3AlC2 in 40% hydrofluoric acid. The L-Ti3C2 was then loaded with sulfur (57.6 wt%) to form a S/L-Ti3C2 composite. The composite was then used as a cathode material for Li-S batteries, which showed a high initial discharge capacity of 1291 mA h g(-1) and an excellent capacity retention of 970 mA h g(-1) after 100 cycles. The results suggest that two-dimensional carbides, similar to graphene and/or graphite, are a promising material for a wide range of applications in Li-S batteries and other electrochemical energy storage devices.