Heterostructured microspheres of MOF-derived (Zn,Mn)S/C coated manganese sulfide for aqueous zinc ion batteries

As a great promising electrode material for aqueous zinc ion batteries (AZIBs), the manganese sulfide (MnS) takes the advantages of low redox potential and high theoretical capacity. Nonetheless, rapid capacity decline and poor rate performance caused by the dissolution of MnS have hindered the application and development of MnS cathode. In this study, MOF-derived (Zn,Mn)S/C coated manganese sulfide heterogeneous microspheres ((Zn,Mn)S/C@MnS) were constructed through the use of simple in-situ growth and calcination methods. Strategically designed (Zn,Mn)S/C composites were evenly cladded on the surface of MnS microsphere. (Zn,Mn)S/C@MnS microsphere revealed admirable rate performance, high cyclic stability and great reversibility. It performs a specific capacity of 374.1 mAh/g at 200 mA g−1. And its specific capacity remains at 85.6 mAh/g after 1000 cycles at 1000 mA g−1. This potential cathode material can provide some new strategies or visions for the application of manganese-based sulfide in the field of AZIBs.