2D nanocomposite 2H-MoS2@Ti3C2 (MXene) as an efficient anode for Li-ion batteries

Two-dimensional (2D) nanocomposites are increasingly being used as advanced anode materials for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). 2D materials such as MoS₂ deliver appropriate anode potentials in LIBs due to their tunable electrical properties, extensive surface area, and effective transport pathways. However, MoS₂ anodes have low electrical conductivity, polysulfide shuttle effect and exhibit significant volume growth after repeated lithiation/delithiation, severely restricting their practical limitations to use in LIBs. In the present work, a MoS₂@Ti₃C₂ (MXene) heterostructured nanocomposite was effectively produced using a hydrothermal route followed by thermal treatment and evaluated as an upgraded anode material for LIBs. Structural characterization confirmed the uniform growth of MoS₂ nanoflowers anchored on Ti₃C₂ sheets with strong interfacial coupling. Electrochemical tests demonstrated that the MoS₂@Ti₃C₂ (10%) composite delivered an excellent reversible specific capacity of approximately 250 mAh g−1 at a reasonably high current density of 2 A g−1. The MoS₂@Ti₃C₂ (10%) composite half-cell also preserved approximately 87% capacity retention after prolonged cycling, which is significantly greater than that of pristine MoS₂. The reduced charge transfer resistance and stable cycling behaviour highlight the synergistic effect between MoS₂ and Ti₃C₂ in improving charge transport and mechanical stability. The integration of MoS₂ nanosheets with conductive Ti₃C₂ layers produces a uniformly interconnected 2D heterostructure that boosts electronic transport, accelerates Li+ diffusion, and resists volume expansion, as confirmed by post-cycling characterisations. These findings identify the MoS₂@Ti₃C₂ nanocomposite as a potential high-performance anode material with enhanced stability and rate capability for lithium-ion batteries.