MXene-induced V2O5 structural modulation enables fast ion transport in zinc-ion batteries

Hydrated vanadium pentoxide (V 2 O 5 ·nH 2 O, VOH) has emerged as a promising cathode material for zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs) owing to its tunable layered architecture, multivalent redox activity, and high theoretical capacity. However, its practical implementation is constrained by sluggish Zn 2+ diffusion kinetics and structural degradation during cycling, which significantly limit its rate capability and long-term durability. Herein, we propose a high-performance composite cathode material integrating VOH with MXene (Ti 3 C 2 T x ) via a two-step hydrothermal synthesis and interfacial bonding strategy. The MXene nanosheets serve as both conductive scaffolds and structural spacers, expanding the interlayer spacing of VOH while forming a stable V-O-Ti heterointerface. This synergistic configuration not only enhances electronic conductivity but also mitigates volumetric strain during Zn 2+ intercalation/ deintercalation. Consequently, the MX@VOH composite delivers a specific capacity of 325.6 mAh g −1 at 0.5 A g −1 and retains 86 % capacity after 1000 cycles at 5 A g −1 , outperforming most reported VOH-based cathodes. This work provides a universal and scalable interface engineering approach for designing high-performance cathodes in advanced energy storage systems.