Preconstructing Asymmetric Interface in Air Cathodes for High-Performance Rechargeable Zn-Air Batteries

Area of Science:

• Electrochemistry
• Materials Science
• Sustainable Energy

Background:

• Rechargeable zinc-air batteries are crucial for sustainable energy storage.
• Sluggish oxygen redox kinetics at air cathodes limit battery performance.
• Existing methods for fabricating asymmetric air cathodes are insufficient.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an effective strategy for fabricating asymmetric air cathodes.
• To enhance the electrocatalytic efficiency and performance of rechargeable zinc-air batteries.

Main Methods:

• A novel asymmetric interface preconstruction strategy was employed.
• Immiscible organic-water diphases were introduced to form electrocatalysts in situ.
• The method facilitates the creation of asymmetric configurations within air cathodes.

Main Results:

• The fabricated asymmetric air cathodes achieved high working rates (50 mA cm⁻²).
• Exceptional cycling stability was demonstrated (3400 cycles at 10 mA cm⁻²).
• The cathodes maintained performance under harsh conditions (25 mA cm⁻², 25 mAh cm⁻²).

Conclusions:

• The asymmetric interface preconstruction strategy effectively enhances zinc-air battery performance.
• This universal and scalable method offers a pathway to advanced asymmetric air cathodes.
• The findings significantly promote the development of high-performance rechargeable zinc-air batteries.