Neuron-Inspired Design of High-Performance Electrode Materials for Sodium-Ion Batteries.

Sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) are generally considered as promising cheap alternatives of lithium-ion batteries for stationary renewable energy storage and have received increasing attention in recent years. The exploration of anode materials with efficient electron transportation is essential for improving the performance of SIBs. Inspired by the signal transfer mode of a neuron, we designed a composite by stringing MoS2 nanoflower (soma) with multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) (axons). High-resolution TEM observation reveals a lattice matching growth mechanism of MoS2 nanosheets on the interface of MWCNTs and the lattice expansion of the (002) plane of MoS2. The lattice matching among the MoS2 nanosheet and MWCNT could facilitate electron transfer and structure maintenance upon cycling. The expanded distance of the (002) plane of MoS2 would also promote the sodium-ion intercalation/deintercalation kinetics of the composite. Benefiting from the structural features, when used as an anode material for SIBs, the composite exhibits excellent electrochemical performance, including high specific capacity, excellent cycle stability, and superior rate capabilities. A stable capacity of 527.7 mAh g-1 can be achieved after 110 cycles at a current density of 100 mA g-1. The neuron-inspired design proposed is a promising and efficient strategy for the development of electrode materials for SIBs with high mass transport kinetics and structural stability.