X-ray microtomographic studies of the shape change of rechargeable Zn battery anodes

Abstract

Although disposable Zn-based batteries have been developed into widespread commercial devices decades ago, successful applications of rechargeable Zn batteries are still hindered by various technical drawbacks, a crucial one being limited cycle-life, due to uncontrolled morphology changes of the anode upon applying discharge/charge sequences. In this work, we report a systematic post mortem and in situ X-ray computed microtomography-based investigation of Zn electrode cycling for traditional and innovative electrolyte chemistries and electrode configurations, at current densities and depths of discharge of practical interest. 3D imaging of intact cells revealed unprecedented morphochemical details of anode shape change that could be explicitly modelled and systematically correlated with operating conditions.