Metallic MoS₂ and Graphene Heterostructures for Lithium-Sulfur Batteries

Integration of two-dimensional (2D) materials into heterostructures can enhance their properties for electrochemical applications through fast charge transfer and ion conduction. However, translation of fundamental properties into practical devices is challenging. Here we demonstrate 2D heterostructures of metallic MoS₂ and graphene with improved catalytic activity and ionic conductivity, allowing the realization of 2.05 ampere-hour lithium-sulfur (Li-S) pouch cell batteries with exceptionally low electrolyte-to-sulfur ratio (E/S = 1.9 µl mg^-1), high energy density of 525 Wh kg^-1, and long cycle life of >70% capacity retention after 140 cycles. Our results show that rational design of heterostructures from 2D materials can overcome fundamental challenges associated with sluggish reaction kinetics and poor ion transport in Li-S batteries.