A B,N co-doped carbon nanotube array with anchored MnO2 nanosheets as a flexible cathode for aqueous zinc-ion batteries

• A novel flexible cathode material, BNCNTs@MnO2, was synthesized by anchoring MnO2 nanosheets on B,N co-doped carbon nanotube arrays grown on carbon cloth. • The BNCNTs@MnO2 cathode exhibits a high specific capacity of 310.7 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1 and excellent rate capability. • Outstanding long-term cycling stability is achieved with 79.7% capacity retention after 8000 cycles at 3 A g−1. • The strong bonding between BNCNTs and carbon cloth enhances electron transport and ion diffusion, improving structural stability and durability.