MnO/Carbon Nanocomposite Fabricated by a MnCO3/Mn Metal−Organic Framework/Glucose Composite for Aqueous Zinc-Ion Batteries

Abstract MnO is a common electrode material for a zinc-ion battery, yet, its lower conductivity and specific capacity still face a challenge, and its energy storage mechanism is not clear. This work aims to fabricate a MnO/C nanocomposite based on heating the MnCO3/Mn-MOF/glucose composite, resulting in improving the conductivity and electrochemical kinetics, thus enhancing specific capacity. In addition, the energy storage mechanism is also explained using in situ XRD, ex situ XPS, et al. Further, the structures and electrochemical properties of these materials are systematically investigated. The optimized MnO/C sample (MC-10) exhibits the maximum specific capacity of 340 mAh g−1 at a current density of 100 mA g−1 and specific capacity of 264 mAh g−1 at 200 mA g−1. Even at a high current density of 1000 mA g−1, it still delivers a high specific capacity of 85 mAh g−1 after 1000 cycles.