Rational Design of Excellent V₂O₅-Based Cathodes of Zinc-Ion Batteries via the Regulation of the Zn²⁺ Migration Kinetic Process

Identifying suitable vanadium-based cathodes that possess highly open crystal structures and elevated theoretical capacities for zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs) has always been a challenging task. Although the typical layered vanadium oxide V2O5 exhibits good zinc-ion storage capability, its slow kinetic behavior and poor electrical conductivity limit further development. To address this challenge, we have obtained a series of V2O5@ZVMF-X (X = 1, 2, 3) cathodes by employing a combination of hydrothermal, liquid-phase, and postcalcination methods using the Zn-V-MOF precursor. As a result, these cathodes deliver porous 1D channels and a unique dense nanosheet structure. Moreover, the V2O5@ZVMF-X cathodes demonstrate excellent electrochemical zinc storage capabilities, among which the V2O5@ZVMF-2 cathode delivers the most outstanding electrochemical capacity and rate properties. The V2O5@ZVMF-2 cathode, with more zinc ion diffusion channels and electrochemically active sites, achieves a significant specific capacity of 504.6 mAh g–1 at 0.1 A g–1, along with a rapid Zn2+ migration rate. Additionally, various ex situ characterization techniques have been conducted to confirm the reversible insertion and extraction of Zn2+ in the V2O5@ZVMF-2 cathode. This work provides a reference for expanding the application of advanced cathode materials derived from Zn-V-MOF precursors.