Influence of surface interaction between Ag/Mn3O4 on zinc-ion storage performance

Manganese-based compounds, as the most widely used among aqueous zinc-ion batteries cathode materials, have the advantages of high theoretical specific capacity and high voltage. However, their low electrical conductivity and poor cycling stability make them unsuitable for practical applications. Surface modification with metal ions is the most effective and convenient method for improving the situation. Composites deposited with Ag on the surface of Mn3O4 (referred to as AMO) are prepared by the aqueous solution precipitation method. The specific capacity of the AMO-0.5 composite is 423.1 mAh/g at a current density of 0.1 A g- 1, and the capacity retention is 87.7% after 1000 cycles at 1.5 A g- 1. The surface interaction of AMO improves the intrinsic defects of the material, enhances the electrical conductivity, stabilizes the crystalline structure of the material, and hinders the Jahn-Teller effect. Ag nanoparticles can also inhibit the gas bubbles generated by water decomposition during the cycling process and prevent the dissolution of Mn2+, thus improving the cycling stability. The study on the synergistic mechanism of surface-modified metal nanoparticles can provide inspirations for the development of other similar new materials.