In Situ Buildup of Zinc Anode Protection Films with Natural Protein Additives for High-Performance Zinc Battery Cycling

Abstract

The uncontrolled growth of dendrites and serious side reactions, such as hydrogen evolution and corrosion, significantly hinder the industrial application and development of aqueous zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs). This article presents ovalbumin (OVA) as a multifunctional electrolyte additive for aqueous ZIBs. Experimental characterizations and theoretical calculations reveal that the OVA additive can replace the solvated sheath of recombinant hydrated Zn 2+ through the coordination water, preferentially adsorb on the surface of the Zn anode, and construct a high-quality self-healing protective film. Notably, the OVA-based protective film with strong Zn 2+ affinity will promote uniform Zn deposition and inhibit side reactions. As a result, Zn||Zn symmetrical batteries in ZnSO 4 electrolytes containing OVA achieve a cycle life exceeding 2200 h. Zn||Cu batteries and Zn||MnO 2 (2 A g −1 ) full batteries show excellent cycling stability for 2500 cycles, demonstrating promising application prospects. This study provides insights into utilizing natural protein molecules to modulate the kinetics of Zn 2+ diffusion and enhance the stability of the anode interface.

Advance in Electrolyte for Stable Zinc Anodes in Mild Aqueous Batteries

“…The OVA-based protective film with strong Zn 2+ affinity will promote uniform Zn deposition and inhibit side reactions. Zn||Zn symmetrical batteries in ZnSO 4 electrolytes containing OVA achieve a cycle life exceeding 2200 h. 38 The ZUR is generally low due to the side reaction induced by active water molecules in aqueous solution. Wang et al introduced sulfonane (SL) to reshape the primary solvated shell of Zn 2+ , significantly reducing the side reaction of the Zn anode (Figure 2e,f) and achieving a high ZUR at high capacity.…”

“…The OVA-based protective film with strong Zn 2+ affinity will promote uniform Zn deposition and inhibit side reactions. Zn||Zn symmetrical batteries in ZnSO 4 electrolytes containing OVA achieve a cycle life exceeding 2200 h …”