An organic cathode with tailored working potential for aqueous Zn-ion batteries

Abstract

Up to 0.61 V increase of the working potential was achieved by modifying the anthraquinone (AQ) molecular structure with a stronger electron-withdrawing cyano group. Owing to the promoted discharge potential, an attractive energy density of 151.9 W h kg⁻¹ was realized for the Zn//TCNAQ full cell. The TCNAQ also displayed a good capacity retention of 81% after 1000 cycles at 500 mA g⁻¹ and a high mass loading practicability. Our research provided insight into the design of organic cathode materials with a tailored working potential for aqueous Zn-ion batteries.