Flower-like C@V2O5 microspheres as highly electrochemically active cathode in aqueous zinc-ion batteries

Flower-like C@V2O5 microspheres with high specific capacity were synthesized by a facile hydrothermal method. The microstructure, specific capacity and electrochemical properties of C@V2O5 microspheres were studied. Results showed that the C@V2O5 microspheres with a diameter of similar to 3 mu m are covered over by V2O5 nanosheets, and therefore have a large surface area which is almost 5 times higher than that of pure V2O5 powders. Moreover, the initial specific capacity of C@V2O5 microsphere is as high as 247.42 mAh . g(-1), and after 100 cycles, the capacity retention rate is still 99.4%. Compared with pure V2O5, flower-like C@V2O5 microspheres show higher discharge specific capacity, better rate performance and more stable cycling performance.