Facile synthesis of a sulfur/multiwalled carbon nanotube nanocomposite cathode with core—shell structure for lithium rechargeable batteries

摘要

A novel sulfur/multiwalled carbon nanotube nanocomposite (S/MWCNT) was prepared by a facile quasi-emulsion template method in an O/W system. Transmission and scanning electronic microscopy show the formation of a highly developed core-shell tubular structure consisting of S/ MWCNT composite with uniform sulfur coating on its surface. The homogenous dispersion and integration of MWCNT in the S/MWCNT composite create a highly conductive and mechanically flexible framework, enhancing the electronic conductivity and consequently the rate capability of the material. The S/MWCNT composite cathode could deliver a stable discharge (the fifth cycle) capacity of about 903 mAh g~(-1) at 0.1 C, 751 mAh g~(-1) at 0.5 C, and 631 mAh g~(-1) at 1 C.