Do Zinc Dendrites Exist in Neutral Zinc Batteries: A Developed Electrohealing Strategy to In Situ Rescue In-Service...

Area of Science:

• Electrochemistry
• Materials Science
• Energy Storage

Background:

• Dendritic growth in aqueous zinc-ion batteries (ZBs) is a debated issue impacting battery lifespan.
• Existing research is divided on the severity and conditions of dendrite formation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To clarify the conditions influencing zinc dendrite formation in ZBs.
• To develop a novel method for mitigating dendrite-related degradation.
• To investigate the potential for in-situ battery repair.

Main Methods:

• Investigated charge/discharge-condition-dependent formation of Zn dendrites.
• Analyzed dendrite morphology and size under varying current densities and capacities.
• Developed and applied an electrohealing methodology to remove existing dendrites.

Main Results:

• Zn dendrite formation is confirmed to be dependent on current density and capacity.
• Increased current densities lead to significant lifespan degradation and voltage hysteresis.
• The electrohealing method successfully passivated dendrites, creating a smooth surface and prolonging battery lifespan by over 400%.

Conclusions:

• Zn dendrites are a critical issue under high current densities and capacities in ZBs.
• The developed electrohealing strategy offers a promising approach for active dendrite elimination and in-situ battery repair.
• This work shifts focus from passive prevention to active elimination of metal dendrites in batteries.