Navajoite phase V5O12•6H2O nanorods with ultra−long lifespan for aqueous zinc−ion batteries

Abstract

Aqueous zinc−ion batteries have attracted wide attention because of their low cost and high safety advantages, whereas the cathode materials with stable internal structure and fast transfer channels are urgently needed. Herein, a Navajoite phase V5O12•6 H2O nanorods has been prepared via a facile hydrothermal method, and proved to be a good choice as the cathode of ZIBs because of the excellent structural stability and special Zn2+ ion transfer channel. Electrochemical measurements demonstrate that the as−fabricated V5O12•6 H2O nanorods can disclose a high rate performance (405 mA h g−1 under 0.1 A g−1), a long−term cyclability (81.2% maintained after 20,000 cycles under 10 A g−1) and an excellent energy output (338.04 Wh kg−1 at 227 W kg−1). In addition, various ex−situ characterizations have revealed the electrochemical mechanism in V5O12•6 H2O cathode during reversible Zn2+ ion intercalation/de−intercalation process. The impressive electrochemical performance of V5O12•6 H2O cathode shows its high potential in practical applications.