Fluoride-Based Stable Quasi-Solid-State Zinc Metal Battery with Superior Rate Capability

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Energy Storage

Background:

• Aqueous zinc metal batteries face limitations in lifespan due to issues like dendrite formation and corrosion.
• Developing stable and high-performance zinc anodes is crucial for advancing next-generation battery technologies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate a lanthanum fluoride (LaF3)-coated zinc anode (LF@Zn) for separator-free quasi-solid-state zinc metal batteries.
• To enhance uniform zinc deposition and suppress dendrite growth for improved battery longevity and safety.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a LaF3-coated Zn anode (LF@Zn).
• Construction of a separator-free quasi-solid-state zinc metal battery using a LaF3-based electrolyte.
• Electrochemical testing of symmetric cells and a LF@Zn//VO2 full cell.

Main Results:

• The LF@Zn anode demonstrated smooth, dendrite-free zinc deposition, regulated by homogeneous Zn2+ flux.
• Corrosion side reactions were suppressed by modulating the [Zn(H2O)6]2+ solvation sheath.
• Symmetric cells showed over 1300 h lifespan at 2 mA cm-2 and excellent rate performance (156 mV at 50 mA cm-2).
• A full cell achieved 3000 cycles at 6.0 A g-1 with high rate capability.

Conclusions:

• The LaF3 coating effectively stabilizes the zinc anode in quasi-solid-state electrolytes.
• This approach offers a promising strategy for developing long-lasting and high-performance aqueous zinc metal batteries.
• The study establishes a stable Zn anode using a fluoride-based quasi-solid-state electrolyte, opening new avenues for metal anode protection.