A direct approach to Zn2+ pre-intercalated V2O5 cathodes with superior electrochemical performance for aqueous zinc-ion batteries

Abstract

We report a simple and direct hydrothermal route to synthesize Zn²⁺-intercalated V₂O₅·nH₂O using a zinc metal strip as the Zn²⁺ source—a strategy not previously applied to vanadium oxides. This direct intercalation expands the interlayer spacing and enhances structural stability, delivering significantly improved capacity, rate performance, and cycling stability compared to most of the existing Zn-intercalated V₂O₅ systems obtained by conventional approaches. Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations reveal reduced band gap and increased electronic states near the Fermi level due to Zn-intercalation, confirming enhanced electronic conductivity. This work offers a novel design pathway toward high-performance cathodes for aqueous Zn-ion batteries.