Highly-robust nanoplate-shaped V2O5 as an efficient cathode material for aqueous zinc ion batteries

Abstract

The efficiency and performances of energy storage and conversion systems are highly dependent on the electrode performances, which have a direct impact on their functioning. The fabrication of electrode materials with novel nanostructures has a substantial positive impact on their electrochemical performances. Recently, two-dimensional nanomaterials have drawn a lot of attention due to their significant features, such as distinctive 2D-layered structure and infinite planar lengths as well as providing short routes for ion and electron transportation including large surface areas for additional adsorption sites. Herein, we have proposed a simple solvothermal synthesis for the fabrication of 2D nanoplates of a V2O5 cathode for rechargeable aqueous zinc-ion batteries. The obtained high electrochemical results confirmed the potency of the V2O5 nanoplate cathode for zinc ion batteries. Furthermore, the Zn2+ ion storage mechanism within the V2O5 crystal lattice is also discussed, which is based on the phase transition from pristine V2O5 to zinc pyrovanadate (ZnxV2O5·nH2O) during reversible Zn2+ (de)-intercalation in the open-structured hosts.