Constructing nano‐channeled tin layer on metal zinc for high‐performance zinc‐ion batteries anode

Abstract

Rechargeable aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (ZIBs) have recently been comprehensively studied because of metal zinc (Zn) unique properties. However, the problems of metal zinc anode in ZIBs, namely, dendrite formation and side reactions, seriously shorten the cycling lifetimes and limit the coulombic efficiencies. Here, the tin (Sn) layer with a three‐dimensional nano‐channeled structure is decorated on zinc metal via a facile in situ substitution reaction, constructing the Sn modified Zn (Sn‐Zn) anode for high‐performance ZIBs. Multiscale investigation techniques, especially micro‐CT, are used to investigate the inhibition of zinc dendrites. In addition, the induction mechanism of Zn by Sn is also elaborately investigated. The designed Sn‐Zn anode can alleviate zinc dendrite growth and ensure long‐life stability. This work brings exciting new possibilities for the realization of industrial aqueous zinc‐ion batteries and provides new insights for the rational deposition of the Zn metal anodes.

Zincophilic Cu Sites Induce Dendrite‐Free Zn Anodes for Robust Alkaline/Neutral Aqueous Batteries

“…Quite obviously, due to the heterogeneous deposition, a rough surface with accumulated Zn protrusions are observed on Zn foil after cycling at 5 mAh cm −2 in alkaline and neutral electrolytes (Figure S6a,b, Supporting Information), indicating the Zn dendrite growth and potential internal short circuit. [32][33][34] On the contrary, CZ-Zn with intrinsic zincophilic Cu sites exhibits a relatively uniform and dense surface without any conspicuous protuberances, suggesting a highly reversible Zn plating/ stripping process without zinc-dendrite in both alkaline and neutral electrolytes (Figure S6c,d, Supporting Information). Additionally, the morphology of CZ-Zn electrode after deposition at 5 mA cm −2 with a capacity of 5 mAh cm −2 in different electrolytes are also studied.…”

Reversible aqueous Zn battery anode enabled by a stable complexation adsorbent interface

“…[1][2][3][4][5][6] Nevertheless, Zn metal anode faces challenges in stability and reversibility in aqueous electrolyte, as exemplified by the uncontrolled dendritic-zinc growth and undesired corrosion side reactions, which have hindered the practical popularization of RAZBs. [7][8][9][10][11] To meet these challenges and enhance the electrochemical performance of Zn metal electrode, various methods, including three-dimensional structure design, [12][13][14] employing stable host, [15][16][17] surface protection, [18][19][20][21][22] and electrolyte engineering, [23][24][25] have been proposed for the recent years. Despite these exciting advances, it is still eagerly needed yet challenging to develop approaches with simple operation procedures and low-cost for practical aqueous Zn electrodes with satisfied reversibility.…”

Nano‐scale BN interface for ultra‐stable and wide temperature range tolerable Zn anode

“…[4][5][6] However, the uncontrolled dendrite-formation and corrosion/hydrogen evolution of Zn anode have seriously hindered the development of ZESDs for commercial applications. 7,8 Thereinto, Zn dendrites are formed on the Zn anode surface due to the uneven electric field distribution. The Zn dendrites can also complicate the parasitic reaction of electrolyte, which produces more by-products that even pierce the separator.…”

“…Many achievements for advanced cathodes have also been made towards the goal of high energy density batteries 4–6 . However, the uncontrolled dendrite‐formation and corrosion/hydrogen evolution of Zn anode have seriously hindered the development of ZESDs for commercial applications 7,8 . Thereinto, Zn dendrites are formed on the Zn anode surface due to the uneven electric field distribution.…”