Self-supported VO_(2)on polydopamine-derived pyroprotein-based fibers for ultrastable and flexible aqueous zinc-ion batteries

A conventional electrode composite for rechargeable zinc-ion batteries(ZIBs)includes a binder for strong adhesion between the electrode material and the current collector.However,the introduction of a binder leads to electrochemical inactivity and low electrical conductivity,resulting in the decay of the capacity and a low rate capability.We present a binder-and conducting agent-free VO_(2)composite electrode using in situ polymerization of dopamine on a flexible current collector of pyroprotein-based fibers.The as-fabricated composite electrode was used as a substrate for the direct growth of VO_(2)as a self-supported form on polydopamine-derived pyroprotein-based fibers(pp-fibers@VO_(2)(B)).It has a high conductivity and flexible nature as a current collector and moderate binding without conventional binders and conducting agents for the VO_(2)(B)cathode.In addition,their electrochemical mechanism was elucidated.Their energy storage is induced by Zn^(2+)/H^(+)coinsertion during discharging,which can be confirmed by the lattice expansion,the formation of by-products including Zn_(x)(OTf)_(y)(OH)_(2x−y)·nH_(2)O,and the reduction of V^(4+)to V^(3+).Furthermore,the assembled Zn//pp-fibers@VO_(2)(B)pouch cells have excellent flexibility and stable electrochemical performance under various bending states,showing application possibilities for portable and wearable power sources.