Synergistic V2O5/WS2 composite cathode for high-capacity and long-cycling aqueous zinc-ion batteries
摘要
The pressing need for sustainable energy storage solutions has spurred significant progress in aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs). Still, challenges persist with cathode materials regarding capacity, cycling stability, and structural integrity. This study presents a V2O5/WS2 composite cathode, developed through scalable physical blending, which synergistically tackles these limitations. By combining the high specific capacity of V2O5 with the structural robustness of WS2, the composite enhances conductivity and accelerates charge transfer. The electrochemical evaluation revealed that the composite exhibits superior multiplier performance and a substantial specific capacity of 384 mAh g−1 at 0.5 A g−1, outperforming both V2O5 (358 mAh g−1) and WS2 (176 mAh g−1) cathodes. The composite also demonstrates exceptional cycling stability, retaining 80% of its capacity after 1,550 cycles, far surpassing V2O5 (45%) and WS2 (18%). Field emission scanning electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and Raman testing confirmed the composition and reaction mechanism of the prepared V2O5/WS2. With its scalable production, balanced high-energy–density storage, rapid charging capability, and mechanical durability, the V2O5/WS2 composite lays out a practical blueprint for the next generation of AZIBs, meeting critical demands for grid-scale renewable energy storage.