Nanostructured MoS(2)/BiVO(4) Composites for Energy Storage Applications

We report the optimized synthesis and electrochemical characterization of a composite of few-layered nanostructured MoS(2) along with an electroactive metal oxide BiVO(4). In comparison to pristine BiVO(4), and a composite of graphene/BiVO(4), the MoS(2)/BiVO(4) nanocomposite provides impressive values of charge storage with longer discharge times and improved cycling stability. Specific capacitance values of 610 Fg(−1) (170 mAhg(−1)) at 1 Ag(−1) and 166 Fg(−1) (46 mAhg(−1)) at 10 Ag(−1) were obtained for just 2.5 wt% MoS(2) loaded BiVO(4). The results suggest that the explicitly synthesized small lateral-dimensioned MoS(2) particles provide a notable capacitive component that helps augment the specific capacitance. We discuss the optimized synthesis of monoclinic BiVO(4), and few-layered nanostructured MoS(2). We report the discharge capacities and cycling performance of the MoS(2)/BiVO(4) nanocomposite using an aqueous electrolyte. The data obtained shows the MoS(2)/BiVO(4) nanocomposite to be a promising candidate for supercapacitor energy storage applications.