Cathode materials for rechargeable zinc-ion batteries: From synthesis to mechanism and applications

Rechargeable zinc-ion batteries (RZIBs) are one of the most promising candidates to replace lithium-ion batteries and fulfill future electrical energy storage demands due to the characters of high environmental abundance, low cost and high capacities (820 mAh g−1/5855 mAh cm−3). Although some progresses have been made in enhancing the electrochemical performance of RZIBs, challenges of the lack of suitable cathodes to tolerate the stable insertion/extraction of Zn2+ ions still remain. In this review, we mainly summarize the synthesis technology, composition, structure and electrochemical properties of various cathode materials of RZIBs as well as optimization of the electrolyte, which include manganese-based oxides, vanadium-based materials, Prussian blue analogues, Chevrel phases, polyanionic compounds, metal disulfides, organic compounds, aqueous electrolyte and nonaqueous electrolyte. Furthermore, their energy storage mechanisms are also discussed. Finally, challenges, further research directions and perspectives regarding the development of high performance cathodes are highlighted. This review will be beneficial for researchers to develop high performance RZIBs for meeting the demands of rapidly developing electric vehicles and portable electronic products.