Ni3S2@PANI core–shell nanosheets as a durable and high-energy binder-free cathode for aqueous rechargeable nickel–zinc batteries

Abstract

To meet the ever-increasing demand of multifarious electronics and electrified vehicles, developing stable and high-performance electrodes for aqueous rechargeable nickel–zinc (Ni//Zn) batteries is highly attractive. Herein, Ni₃S₂@polyaniline (PANI) core–shell nanosheets with excellent electrochemical performance and superior cycling stability have been successfully developed as a new robust binder-free cathode for rechargeable Ni//Zn batteries. Benefiting from the enhanced charge transport rate, the as-fabricated Ni₃S₂@PANI//Zn battery presents an impressive specific capacity of 242.8 ± 8.8 mA h g⁻¹ at a current density of 5.1 A g⁻¹ with no capacity decay after 5000 cycles. Additionally, the aqueous rechargeable Ni₃S₂@PANI//Zn battery shows a promising energy density of 386.7 W h kg⁻¹, together with a peak power density of 38.8 kW kg⁻¹. Such a glorious stable Ni₃S₂@PANI cathode for Ni//Zn batteries may provide significant insight into future multifarious electronics and electrified vehicle applications.