Simple Fabrication of Ti3C2/MnO2 Composites as Cathode Material for High Capacity and Long Cycle Lifespan Zn-ion Batteries

Rechargeable aqueous Zn-MnO2 batteries are potential candidates for electrochemical energy storage systems due to their easy fabrication, nontoxicity, and low-cost features. However, the practical application of the MnO2-based cathode is impeded by its low electrical conductivity and poor stability during cycling. Herein, the Ti3C2/MnO2 composite cathode is elaborately designed and fabricated via a simple mechanical grinding method. Benefiting from the high conductivity of Ti3C2 MXene along with the abundant active sites of nano-MnO2, the obtained Ti3C2/MnO2 electrode shows fast ion transfer and enhanced structural stability. Therefore, Ti3C2/MnO2 composite as the cathode of zinc ion battery exhibits superior charge storage performance (354 mAh g(-1) at 0.2 A g(-1), which is 30% higher than that of pure MnO2 cathode), high cycling stability (85% capacitance retention along with about 100% columbic efficiency after 850 cycles at l A g(-1)), excellent energy density (467.33 Wh kg(-l) at 260 W kg(-1)), and impressive long-term lifespan (65.1 mAh g(-1) over 900 h at 0.1 A g(-1)). Furthermore, the mechanism related is elucidated via comprehensive characterizations. Herein, it provides a convenient and efficient method to fabricate high-performance Mn-based cathode for Zinc-ion batteries.