Strategies for addressing the challenges of aqueous zinc batteries enabled by functional separators

Abstract

Aqueous zinc batteries (AZBs) with high safety, low cost, ample resources and environmental benignity are considered as one promising candidate of next-generation energy-storage devices. Nevertheless, some critical issues such as...

Recent advances in electrospinning nanofiber materials for aqueous zinc ion batteries

“… 26 Although filter paper and non-woven fabric separators possess excellent mechanical properties and high porosity, their further application is prevented by the poor transport regulation ability. 147 An ideal separator for AZIBs should not only have excellent ionic conductivity after taking in the electrolyte but should also regulate the transport of Zn 2+ during the cycling process and prevent the growth of Zn dendrites. Compared to conventional separators, electrospun polymer fiber separators have attracted extensive attention because of their thermal stability, mechanical merit, electronic insulation, high mechanical flexibility, and controllable structure.…”

Functionalized Non-Glass Fiber Nanoporous Separator for High-Performance Aqueous Zinc Ion Batteries

“…41 Given these challenges, developing novel nanoporous separators with low thickness, high mechanical strength, and uniform pore distribution is crucial. 42 Recognizing the pressing need to address dendrite growth and interfacial side reactions in AZIBs, the conventional thick commercial glass fiber separator falls short in effectively mitigating these issues. Remarkably, non-glass fiber (non-GF) separators with nanoporous structures exhibit several desirable characteristics, including suitable nanopores, micron-level thickness, and robust mechanical properties.…”

“…Commercial separators for AZIBs, mainly glass fiber separators, offer high ionic conductivity, good electrolyte infiltration, and suitable porosity. , However, the poor mechanical strength and nonuniform pore distribution of glass fiber limit its ability to withstand dendrite growth stress, leading to uneven zinc ion deposition and poor cycling performance. , Additionally, the glass fiber’s thickness, reaching several hundred microns, not only lengthens the carrier transport path but also seriously affects the energy density of the battery . Given these challenges, developing novel nanoporous separators with low thickness, high mechanical strength, and uniform pore distribution is crucial …”

A bio-based functional separator enables dendrite-free anodes in aqueous zinc-ion batteries

“… 11 First, non-uniform large-scale pores in GF may result in irregular Zn 2+ deposition and lead to severe dendrite growth. 12 Second, their thickness and looseness make it challenging to achieve high energy density in battery assembly. 13 After all, commercial GF separators are expensive and cannot naturally degrade after disposal.…”