Synthesis of novel ZnV₂O₄ spinel oxide nanosheets and their hydrogen storage properties

We report the synthesis of ZnV₂O₄ spinel oxide novel nanosheets via a template free route to explore its potential hydrogen storage properties for the first time. 2D layered nanostructures are excellent candidates for storage applications. This attracted our interest to synthesize novel spinel oxide nanosheets (NSNs) of ZnV₂O₄. The maximum value for hydrogen absorption in ZnV₂O₄ nanosheets at 473 K is 1.36 wt.% and 1.74 wt.% at 573 K, respectively. Our hydrogen storage measurements along ZnV₂O₄ reveal its superiority over previous reports on hydrogen absorption values concerning oxides, nitrides and chalcogenides. To understand the rate-limiting mechanism, various kinetics models are applied. The calculations show that kinetics is governed by 3D growth with constant interface velocity. The measurements point to ZnV ₂O₄ spinel oxide as a promising hydrogen storage material. PL measurements demonstrate the potential for violet/blue optoelectronic devices.