A truncated octahedron metal-organic framework derived TiO2@C@MoS2 composite with superior lithium-ion storage properties

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), as 3D porous precursors, have demonstrated great potential as electrode materials for lithium storage on account of high specific area and tunable structure. To enhance the intrinsic performance and endow MOFs with versatility, constructing distinctive morphology of MOFs while maintaining their porous structure to satisfy various application is highly desirable. Herein, we successfully developed a facile strategy for rationally designing and synthesizing the morphology of MOFs from circular plate shape to truncated octahedron gem shape via regulating the ratio of Pluronic F127 to terephthalic acid. In addition, the as-prepared Pluronic F127-regulated Ti-based MOFs (F-MIL-125-Ti) sacrifice as precursor to derive 3D mesoporous titanium dioxide (TiO2) and as template for in situ growth of molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) nanosheets to prepare a truncated octahedron TiO2@C@MoS2 hierarchical composite. As expected, the distinctive 3D hierarchical TiO2@C@MoS2 electrode exhibits superb rate capability (775 mAh g−1 at 5 C) and outstanding cycling stability (822 mAh g−1 after 1000 cycles at 1 C), which is benefiting from the 3D mesoporous TiO2 and synergies between TiO2 and MoS2 nanosheets. This work develops new insight to design novel and controllable morphology MOFs-derived materials for application of energy storage devices.