Realization of superior electrochemical performances for ZnMoO4 anode material through the construction strategy of 3D flower-like single crystalline

3D flower-like single crystalline ZnMoO4 microcrystals have been constructed via a facile one-step hydrothermal process. The influences of reaction time and reaction temperature on phase purities and morphologies of ZnMoO4 microcrystals have been investigated in detail. The results illustrate that 3D flower-like single crystalline ZnMoO4 microcrystals with mesoporous architecture can be obtained after being hydrothermal treated at 150 °C for 12 h, which can enhance the stability of structure and facilitate the diffusion of lithium ions. When applied as lithium-ion batteries anode materials, they can deliver a high discharge capacity of 514.9 mAh g−1 at a current rate of 1 C after 500 cycles with nearly 92% capacity retention based on the discharge capacity of 2nd cycle. Most importantly, they also present superior electrochemical performances even at high rates (the capacities of 316.2 and 216.9 mAh g−1 even after 2000 cycles at very large current rate of 5 and 10 C, respectively). The electrochemical results further confirm that 3D flower-like single crystalline ZnMoO4 microcrystals possess high capacity, good rate capability and superior cyclic stability. Our work may provide an effective and facile strategy to control the microstructures and boost the electrochemical performances for transition metal molybdate electrode materials. [Display omitted] •3D flower-like single crystalline ZnMoO4 is constructed by a facile hydrothermal strategy.•The effects of time and temperature on microstructures of ZnMoO4 were investigated.•ZnMoO4 exhibits superior cyclic stability and outstanding rate capability.•Excellent electrochemical performances are due to the unique architecture.