Synergistic effect of electrolyte and intercalation engineering: comprehensive enhancement of electrochemical performance in a mixed proton–electron conducting layered vanadate cathode for aqueous zinc-ion batteries

Key Points

• The aim is to improve the electrochemical performance of layered vanadate cathodes for zinc-ion batteries through electrolyte and intercalation engineering.
• Synthesized layered vanadate cathode (H3N(CH2)4NH3)[V6O14] via intercalation strategy using 1,4-butanediamine cations.
• Investigated effects on interlayer spacing and proton-electron conduction.
• Evaluated overall electrochemical performance within aqueous zinc-ion battery context.
• Significant enhancement in electrochemical performance compared to previous vanadate cathodes.
• Increased interlayer spacing resulting in improved ion mobility.
• Demonstrated stable cycling performance with increased capacity retention.