Enhanced Zn2+ transport pathway constructed by heterogeneous metal-ion oriented intercalation with in situ autogenous conducting network

Vanadates possess a crystal structure conducive to Zn 2+ migration, establishing them as promising cathode materials for aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs). However, the continuous intercalation/deintercalation of Zn 2+ causes repeated expansion and contraction of the vanadate interlayer spacing, potentially leading to structural distortion. This distortion reduces active sites and promotes V dissolution and structural collapse. This work presents a novel approach to constructing low-dimensional AgVO 3 @Ag 2 Cu(VO 3 ) 4 heterostructure cathodes through atomic-nanoscale synergistic effects for application as cathodes in AZIBs. Distinguished from conventional composite materials, this design strategically constructs a Cu–O–V covalent bonding network that strengthens metal-oxygen interactions and enhances interlayer electrostatic screening effects, thereby significantly improving interlayer stability. Ex-situ XPS and X-ray diffraction analyses verified the charging/discharging mechanism as embedding/dembedding of Zn 2+ in Ag@Zn 3 V 2 O 7 (OH) 2 ·2(H 2 O), coupled with a reversible reduction of some Ag + to Ag 0 during the charging/discharging process. Simultaneously, the in-situ phase transformation generates a three-dimensional percolating Ag conductive network, enabling self-reinforcing electrical conductivity. Electrochemical characterization demonstrates that this integrated design allows the material to deliver exceptional performance: a high specific capacity of 135.3 mAh g -1 at 3.0 A g -1 , retaining over 80% capacity after 1460 cycles. Its power density reaches 732.61 W kg -1 with an energy density of 168.5 Wh kg -1 . The pioneering implementation of AgVO 3 @Ag 2 Cu(VO 3 ) 4 composite material as a cathode material establishes a novel approach for the enhancement of AZIB materials.