Aligned MoOx/MoS2Core–Shell Nanotubular Structures with a High Density of Reactive Sites Based on Self-Ordered Anodic Molybdenum Oxide Nanotubes

Abstract

The present work demonstrates the self-organized formation of anodic molybdenum oxide nanotube arrays. The amorphous tubes can be crystallized to MoO2or MoO3and be converted fully or partially into molybdenum sulfide. Vertically aligned MoOx/MoS2nanotubes can be formed when, under optimized conditions, defined MoS2sheets form in a layer by layer arrangement that provide a high density of reactive stacking misalignments (defects). These core–shell nanotube arrays consist of a conductive suboxide core and a functional high defect density MoS2coating. Such structures are highly promising for applications in electrocatalysis (hydrogen evolution) or ion insertion devices.