Honeycomb-like MnO/C hybrids with strong interfacial interactions for aqueous zinc-ion batteries

Abstract

Aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs) have garnered significant attention for large-scale energy storage applications due to their high theoretical capacity, low cost, and inherent safety. However, the absence of cathode materials exhibiting superior electrochemical performance severely impedes their further development. In this study, we report a metal–organic framework (MOF)-derived honeycomb-like MnO/C hybrid as a high-performance cathode material for AZIBs. A facile synthesis method was employed to uniformly embed MnO nanoparticles within a carbon matrix, thereby forming a honeycomb-like structure with robust heterointerfaces. This unique architecture provides efficient pathways for ion and electron transport, significantly enhancing structural stability and electrochemical performance. The MnO/C hybrid exhibits a high discharge specific capacity of 388 mA h g⁻¹ at a current density of 50 mA g⁻¹ and demonstrates excellent cycling stability, with a capacity decay rate of only 0.01% per cycle over 1000 cycles at a high current density of 2000 mA g⁻¹. Comprehensive material characterization and electrochemical testing reveal the underlying mechanisms responsible for the superior electrochemical performance. This work provides a new perspective on the development of high-performance manganese-based cathode materials for AZIBs.