Silver nanoparticle deposited layered double hydroxide nanosheets as a novel and high-performing anode material for enhanced Ni–Zn secondary batteries

Abstract

Simple and facile processes to produce silver nanoparticle deposited layered double hydroxide (Ag-LDH) nanosheets are reported. By a wet chemical reduction method in an aqueous AgNO₃ solution, silver ions can be readily reduced to metallic silver nanoparticles and incorporated evenly on the surface of 2D LDH nanosheets. Structure and morphology analysis of the Ag-LDH composites is characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The Ag-LDH composites are characterized electrochemically proving their exceptional cyclability and high discharge capacity. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and four-point probe conductivity measurements show that silver modification decreases the charge transfer resistance of the anode, and improves the conductivity of the active material, which boosts the electrochemical performance of Ag-LDH composites. These newly designed Ag-LDH nanosheets may offer a promising anode candidate for high-performance Ni–Zn secondary batteries and other zinc battery applications.