Hierarchical mesoporous nanoflowers of Zn2VO4 for high capacity anode in lithium ion batteries

Abstract

Hierarchical nano structures in mixed metal vanadates are more considerable due to their distinguished performance in energy storage and energy conversion devices. A template-free polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) abetted hydrothermal technique is instigated successfully to attain mesoporous hierarchical nano-flowers (HNF) of Zn2VO4. The electrochemical properties of synthesized Zn2VO4 as an anode material for Li-ion batteries are focus of study for the first time. Both vanadium and zinc are comparatively economical, earth abundant and have wide range of redox reactions, which are promising for energy storage systems. As-synthesized HNF of Zn2VO4 has good surface area of 30.2515 m2g-1 and shows a high reversible capacity of 527.6 mAgh−1 up to 300 cycles at a current density of 0.3 A g−1. As-prepared electrode is also tending to be stable for long cycling (500 cycles) at current densities 0.5 and 1 A g−1. Morphology may attribute to increase the Li+ intercalation and a short path for the transportation of electrons and Li+, which lead to high reversible capacity and enhanced rate capability. Our reported results indicate that pristine Zn2VO4 is a credible applicant to be used as an anode in lithium ion batteries.