Hollow ZnS submicrospheres encapsulated in carbon shells with enhanced lithium and sodium storage properties

A hybrid material consisting of hollow ZnS submicrospheres encapsulated in carbon shells (HZnS@C) was synthesized by a simple two-step hydrothermal route followed by a subsequent calcination process using zinc acetate, thiourea, and glucose as raw materials. The morphological and structural characterizations indicated that HZnS@C hybrid particles 200 nm in diameter coated by a carbon layer measuring 2 nm in thickness was prepared from the synthesis process. The electrochemical properties of the hybrid as an anode material for lithium-ion batteries and sodium-ion batteries were investigated. Electrochemical tests demonstrated that the HZnS@C hybrid could deliver an enhanced lithium/sodium storage performance, including a better specific capacity, cycling stability, and rate capability compared to HZnS. The reasons for the excellent energy storage performance of HZnS@C were investigated and discussed.