<p>This study reports on a GO-modified Zn-doped hollow sea urchin-like MnO₂ anode material for lithium-ion batteries. Firstly, Zn/MnO₂ anode materials with varying Zn²⁺ doping levels were prepared using the hydrothermal method. Then, by combining different amounts of graphene oxide with Zn/MnO₂, it was found that when the graphene oxide content is 20% (referred to as the GO-20 anode material), the composite exhibits specific capacity, stability, and better rate performance. After 100 cycles at a current density of 0.1 C, the discharge specific capacity reached 920.9 mAh g⁻¹, and the charge specific capacity reached 915.3 mAh g⁻¹, with a coulombic efficiency of 99.39%. These results demonstrate that appropriate doping and composite modification can significantly enhance the electrochemical performance of MnO₂ materials. The combination of graphene and nanocomposite materials provides more active sites and a more stable structure, contributing to increased energy density and cycle stability of the battery.</p> Graphical abstract <p></p>