Low crystal MoS ₂ nanoflakes embedded on N-doping CNT has been prepared via alternating current and hydrothermal technique, demonstrating superior rate behavior for LIBs and SIBs.

Transition metal phosphate is the prospective electrode material for supercapacitors (SCs). It has an open frame construction with spacious cavities and wide aisles, resulting in excellent electric storage capacity. However, the inferior rate behavior and cycling stability of transition metal phosphate materials in alkaline environments pose significant barriers to their application in SCs. Herein, Ni₁₁(HPO₃)₈(OH)₆/Co₃(HPO₄)₂(OH)₂ heterostructured materials synthesized through a one-step hydrothermal process exhibiting remarkable rate capability coupled with exceptional cycling endurance. Ni₁₁(HPO₃)₈(OH)₆/Co₃(HPO₄)₂(OH)₂ samples exhibit a micron-scale structure composed of sheet-like compositions and unique pore structure. The multistage pore structure is favorable for promoting the diffusion of protons and ions, enhancing the sample’s electrochemical storage capacity. Upon conducting electrochemical tests, it was observed that Ni₁₁(HPO₃)₈(OH)₆/Co₃(HPO₄)₂(OH)₂ composite electrode surpassed both the standalone Ni₁₁(HPO₃)₈(OH)₆ and Co₃(HPO₄)₂(OH)₂ electrode, achieving a remarkable specific capacity of 163 mAh g⁻¹ with exceptional stability and efficiency at 1 A g⁻¹. Notably, this electrode also exhibits superior rate performance, maintaining 82.5% and 71% of its original full capacity even at 50 A g⁻¹ and 100 A g⁻¹, respectively. Furthermore, it demonstrates superior stability in cycling, retaining a capacity of 92.7% at 10 A g⁻¹ after 5000 cycles. Moreover, Ni₁₁(HPO₃)₈(OH)₆/Co₃(HPO₄)₂(OH)₂ and porous carbon (PC) were assembled into a hybrid supercapacitor (HSC). Electrochemical tests reveal an impressive power density of up to 36 kW kg⁻¹ and an exceptional energy density of up to 47.4 Wh kg⁻¹ for the HSC. Moreover, Ni₁₁(HPO₃)₈(OH)₆/Co₃(HPO₄)₂(OH)₂//PC HSC exhibits robust capacity retention stability of 92.9% after enduring 10,000 cycles at 3 A g⁻¹, demonstrating its remarkable durability. This work imparts viewpoints into the design of transition metal phosphate heterostructured materials.

Zinc–air batteries (ZABs) are crucial for renewable energy conversion and storage due to their cost-effectiveness, excellent safety, and superior cycling stability. However, developing efficient and affordable bifunctional electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) at the air cathode remains a significant challenge. Manganese (Mn)-based materials, known for their tunable oxidation states, adaptable crystal structures, and environmental friendliness, are regarded as the most promising candidates. This review systematically summarizes recent advances in Mn-based bifunctional catalysts, concentrating on four primary categories: Mn–N–C electrocatalysts, manganese oxides, manganates, and other Mn-based compounds. By examining the intrinsic merits and limitations of each category, we provide a comprehensive discussion of optimization strategies, which include morphological modulation, structural engineering, carbon hybridization, heterointerface construction, heteroatom doping, and defect engineering, aimed at enhancing catalytic performance. Additionally, we critically address existing challenges and propose future research directions for Mn-based materials in rechargeable ZABs, offering theoretical insights and design principles to advance the development of next-generation energy storage systems.