CeNS Bengaluru develops new 1T-MoS₂ cathode for aqueous zinc-ion batteries for grid storage
Researchers at the Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences (CeNS), Bengaluru, have developed a sulfur-vacancy-induced 1T-phase molybdenum disulfide (1T-MoS₂) cathode for aqueous zinc-ion batteries, the Department of Science and Technology announced on 19 February 2026.
Summary
Researchers at the Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences (CeNS), Bengaluru, have developed a sulfur-vacancy-induced 1T-phase molybdenum disulfide (1T-MoS₂) cathode for aqueous zinc-ion batteries, the Department of Science and Technology announced on 19 February 2026. Aqueous zinc-ion batteries use water-based electrolytes and are seen as safe, cheap and environmentally benign options for storing solar and wind energy. Made by a controlled hydrothermal method, the metallic-phase nanoflakes worked best in a 0.2–1.3 V window, and the battery retained 97.91% of its initial capacity after 500 charge–discharge cycles. CeNS is an autonomous institute of DST.
Key facts
- Announced
- 19 February 2026
- Institute
- CeNS, Bengaluru (autonomous institute of DST)
- Material
- Sulfur-vacancy-induced 1T-phase MoS₂ nanoflakes
- Battery type
- Aqueous zinc-ion (water-based electrolyte)
- Operating window
- 0.2–1.3 V
- Stability
- 97.91% capacity retained after 500 cycles
Practice MCQs 2 questions
Researchers at CeNS Bengaluru reported a new cathode material for aqueous zinc-ion batteries in February 2026. What is the material?
Show answer
Correct answer: D — 1T-phase molybdenum disulfide (1T-MoS₂)
The team synthesised sulfur-vacancy-induced 1T-phase molybdenum disulfide (1T-MoS₂) nanoflakes as the cathode.
Consider the following statements about aqueous zinc-ion batteries: 1. They use water-based electrolytes. 2. In the CeNS study, zinc metal was used directly as the anode. Which of the above is/are correct?
Show answer
Correct answer: C — Both 1 and 2
Both are correct. Aqueous zinc-ion batteries use water-based electrolytes, and zinc metal is used directly as the anode.