In-situ construction of MoC quantum dots embedded in n-doped 2D nanocarbon as a multifunctional host for high-performance lithium sulfide cathode

Lithium–ion batteries using Li 2 S cathode are considered as an optimal alternative for current lithium–ion batteries since their high theoretical capacity (1166 mAh/g) and high energy density (2600 W h kg −1 ). However, low electronic/ionic conductivity, severe lithium polysulfides (LiPSs) shuttle, and sluggish electrochemical reaction kinetics are the three major challenges for the practical application of Li 2 S. Herein, we report a multifunctional host of MoC quantum dots embedded in N–doped 2D nanocarbon (MoC@2D–NNC) with high electronic/ionic conductivity, strong LiPSs capture ability and superior electrochemistry catalytic activation for Li 2 S electrode. Nano Li 2 S is successfully entered into the MoC@2D–NNC to form MoC@2D–NNC/Li 2 S composite via facile liquid–phase dissolution precipitation. The obtained MoC@2D–NNC/Li 2 S composite displays a high electronic conductivity of 0.1624 S cm −1 , high initial discharge capacity of 1059 mAh/g, and long–term cycling performance over 1000 cycles. This reported MoC@2D–NNC/Li 2 S composite exhibits promising applications in advanced Li–S batteries.