Morphology-controlled synthesis of MoS2 using citric acid as a complexing agent and self-assembly inducer for high electrochemical performance

Abstract

Two-dimensional MoS2 with a controllable morphology was prepared via a simple one-step hydrothermal method. Citric acid was used as a complexing agent and self-assembly inducer. The morphology of MoS2 changed from clusters to nanosheets, and, eventually, to stacked nanorods. A formation mechanism is proposed for the observed evolution of the morphology. The nanosheet structure presents a relatively large specific surface area, more exposed active sites and greater 1T phase content compared to the other morphologies. The electrochemical performance tests show that the MoS2 nanosheets exhibit excellent electrochemical behavior. Their specific capacitance is 320.5 F g−1, and their capacitance retention is up to 95% after 5000 cycles at 5 mA cm−2. This work provides a feasible approach for changing the morphology of MoS2 for high efficiency electrode materials for supercapacitors.