Researchers at the University of Manchester, led by Professor Manish Chhowalla, have developed a novel method for producing high-quality, purely metallic two-dimensional (2D) molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) nanosheets at an unprecedented scale and speed. This breakthrough could significantly impact the energy sector, particularly in energy storage and catalysis applications.
Currently, chemical exfoliation methods used to produce metallic 2D MoS2 are time-consuming and yield a mix of metallic and semiconducting phases. The Manchester team’s innovative approach uses microwave irradiation to rapidly produce over 600 grams of purely metallic phase 2D MoS2 per hour. This method also applies to other materials like WS2 and MoSe2. The researchers confirmed the high concentration of the metallic phase using atomic resolution imaging and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy.
The practical implications for the energy industry are substantial. The high metallic phase concentration results in exceptional performance in energy devices. For instance, it achieves the highest exchange current density and among the lowest Tafel slopes for the hydrogen evolution reaction, a critical process in water splitting for hydrogen production. In supercapacitors, it delivers a record-high volumetric capacitance, and in lithium-sulfur pouch cell batteries, it achieves a high specific capacity at an exceptionally low electrolyte to sulfur ratio.
This research, published in the journal Nature Nanotechnology, presents a scalable and rapid method for producing high-quality 2D materials. This advancement could lead to more efficient and cost-effective energy storage solutions and catalytic processes, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable energy future. The team’s work highlights the potential of 2D materials in addressing global energy challenges.
This article is based on research available at arXiv.