Metal-organic-framework-derived two-dimensional ultrathin mesoporous hetero-ZnFe₂O₄/ZnO nanosheets with enhanced lithium storage properties for Li-ion batteries

Abstract

Mesoporous hetero-structures have drawn tremendous attention due to their unprecedented inherent advantages in advanced Li-ion batteries (LIBs). In this study, we developed a facile metal-organic-framework-engaged synthetic methodology for large-scale fabrication of two-dimensional (2D) mesoporous hetero-ZnFe₂O₄/ZnO nanosheets (ZFOZ NSs) with homogeneously dispersed hetero-nanodomains of spinel ZnFe₂O4 and ZnO. When evaluated as a promising anode for LIB applications, the resultant 2D ultrathin mesoporous hetero-ZFOZ NSs exhibited extraordinary electrochemical Li storage performance with long-cycle behavior and large reversible capacities for next-generation LIB applications, thanks to the attractive synergetic contributions from ultrathin mesoporous architecture and electroactive bi-component hetero-interfaces at the nanoscale. Even more encouragingly, the electrode concept we developed here can be easily generalized to rational design and synthesis of other mesoporous hetero-hybrids with remarkable lithium storage capacities for LIBs.