Rugby-ball-like Zinc molybdate electrodes for Li-ion battery anode applications

ZnMoO4 nanostructures with varying morphologies were synthesized using a simple hydrothermal technique, employing different Zn to Mo ratios. Various analytical techniques were employed to characterize both the structure and morphology of the ZnMoO4 nanostructures. As the Zn concentration in the reaction mixture was systematically increased, a transformation in morphology from non-uniform particles to uniform rugby-ball-like structures occurred. Additionally, there was a notable phase transition from predominantly alpha-ZnMoO4 phase to primarily beta-ZnMoO4 phase. At a current density of 0.1 A g(-1), the beta-ZnMoO4 exhibited an initial discharge capacity of 2249 mAh g(-1), while maintaining remarkable reverse rate capacity of 883 mAh g(-1) even at a high current density of 0.2 A g(-1). This uniform rugby-ball-like morphology favors Li-ion diffusion and ease of ion transfer from the electrode surface to electrolyte. The estimated gravimetric energy density LiCoO2//ZnMoO4 is 511 Wh kg(-1), which is better than that of conventional LiCoO2//graphite (398 Wh kg(-1)). These findings underscore the exceptional properties of ZnMoO4, positioning it as a highly promising anode material for lithium-ion battery applications.