A hierarchical V2O3@C hollow microsphere cathode with high performance for zinc-ion batteries

Abstract

Developing vanadium-based cathode materials with high-capacity and long-term stability for aqueous zinc ion batteries still remains challenging. Herein, novel hierarchical durian-shaped vanadium trioxide@carbon (V₂O₃@C) hollow microspheres were prepared using a hydrothermal-carbonization strategy. In situ electrochemically induced phase conversion from V₂O₃@C to Zn₃(OH)₂(V₂O₇)·(H₂O)₂@C was confirmed during the first charging process via in situ and ex situ characterization techniques. The obtained Zn₃(OH)₂(V₂O₇)·(H₂O)₂@C cathode delivers reversible zinc de-intercalation/intercalation and exhibits a high reversible capacity of 562 mA h g⁻¹ at 0.1 A g⁻¹, superior rate performance and long cycle stability (191.4 mA h g⁻¹ is maintained even after 2000 cycles at 10 A g⁻¹). This strategy provides a promising approach to the development of high-performance storage zinc cathode materials.