A dual functional interlayer consisted of composited two-dimensional MoS2 and graphene has been developed as an efficient polysulfide barrier for lithium-sulfur batteries (LSBs). With such a configuration, LSBs show a superior rate capacity and improved cycling capacity. The excellent electrochemical performance can be attributed to the strong bonding interactions between the MoS2/graphene interlayer and the formed lithium polysulfides (LiPSs) as well as the good electrical conductivity of the MoS2/graphene composite. The MoS2/graphene interlayer can physically block LiPSs by the graphene nanosheets and chemically suppress the dissolution of LiPSs by the polar MoS2 nanoflowers. Such a dual functional interlayer further provides a good contact with the surface of the sulfur cathode, acts as an upper current collector and greatly improves the sulfur utilization and the rate capability of LSBs. (C) 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.