Size-controlled Chevrel Mo6S8 as Cathode Material for Mg Rechargeable Battery

Nanoscale Chevrel $Mo_6S_8$ powders are synthesized by molten salt synthesis. Synthesized $Mo_6S_8$ powders have different mean particle sizes which are dependent on a ratio of salt to precursor. The particle sizes of $Mo_6S_8$ powders changes along with the ratio increase. $Mo_6S_8$ (6:1) demonstrates the best electrochemical characteristics among the synthesized $Mo_6S_8$ powders although the $Mo_6S_8$ (4:1) has the smallest particle size. $Mo_6S_8$ (6:1) shows a reversible capacity of 83.9 $mAhg^{-1}$, which is 27.5% and 33% improved value over $Mo_6S_8$ (2:1) and $Mo_6S_8$ (4:1) at a current density of 0.2C, respectively. The superior electrochemical properties of $Mo_6S_8$ (6:1) are attributed to the balanced particle size which provides proper contact area with electrolyte and the shortened $Mg^{2+}$ diffusion length. The $Mo_6S_8$ (4:1) has the smallest particle size but further reduction of particle size from $Mo_6S_8$ (6:1) is not advantageous.