2D Meso/Microporous Platelet Carbon Derived from Metal-Organic frameworks and Its Application in High-Performance Li-S Batteries

A cathode consisting of 2D homogeneous micro/mesoporous platelet carbon (MMPC) is synthesized in one step by regulated pyrolysis of metal–organic frameworks (MOF), which act as self-templates. The uniform micro/mesoporous structure is ascribed to metal sublimation in the Zn-based MOF during the pyrolysis process. The cathode exhibits an excellent cycling performance due to the homogeneous distribution of micro/mesopores and the 2D nanosheet structure, which does not only lead to the loading of evenly distributed, ultrafine sulfur, but also favors the depressing shuttle effect and a rapid electron transfer. Meanwhile, reduced oxide graphene (rGO) – as the conductive agent – is beneficial for the continuity of the electron-transport path and for increasing the utilization of active materials. The optimized MMPC cathode exhibits a superior cycling stability at a rate of 1 C, with 1500 cycles, and an outstanding rate-cycle performance with an initial discharge capacity of 670.1 mAh g⁻¹ and a good cycling stability after 400 cycles at a rate of 5 C.