A seed-like structured Mo@ZrS catalyst on graphene nanosheets for boosting the performance of rechargeable Zn-air batteries.

Novel composite materials are being studied by researchers for energy storage and renewable energy applications. Here, a seed-like Mo-doped ZrS catalyst was developed on a reduced graphene oxide (rGO) surface by an annealing and hydrothermal method. Using photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning microscopy, and X-ray diffraction analyses, the structure of Mo@ZrS/rGO and the impact of heteroatoms are demonstrated, providing insight into the catalyst. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that Mo@ZrS/rGO has been utilized as an efficient energy storage electrocatalyst by offering a very low half-wave potential of 0.80 V for the oxygen reduction reaction in an alkaline solution. Furthermore, Zn-air batteries with a high-power density of 128.6 mW cm and exceptional cycling stability are demonstrated by the developed array electrocatalyst. Ultimately, the research findings suggest novel perspectives on the structure of ZrS nanoseeds created by Mo surface doping, promote the usage of Zn-air batteries in practical scenarios, and offer a fascinating idea for creating a redox electrocatalyst.