Nanosheet architecture of MnO2/carbon with improved reaction kinetics toward advanced zinc energy storage

•2/carbon hybrid cathode was successfully fabricated.•The unique nano-architecture endows the MnO2/carbon with fast reaction kinetics.•The resulting cathode achieves remarkable rate capability (175 mAh/g at 3.0 A/g) and excellent cycling lifespan.•The fundamental reaction mechanism and enhanced kinetics are systematically investigated.