A π-Bridge Spacer Embedded Electron Donor-Acceptor Polymer for Flexible Electrochromic Zn-Ion Batteries

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Energy Storage

Background:

• Zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs) are promising for next-generation energy storage due to high capacity, safety, and cost.
• Current ZIBs require higher energy density for advanced smart electronics.
• Flexible and multifunctional ZIBs are needed for wearable applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a high-performance, flexible ZIB for smart electronics.
• To investigate the impact of a π-bridge spacer on polymer cathode performance in ZIBs.
• To achieve superior electrochromic and electrochemical properties.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of an electron donor-acceptor polymer cathode with a π-bridge spacer.
• Integration with a Zn2+-ion conducting electrolyte for flexible ZIB construction.
• Electrochemical testing including capacity, rate performance, cyclability, and coloration efficiency measurements.

Main Results:

• The π-bridge spacer enhanced ion accessibility and charge transfer in the polymer cathode.
• Achieved high specific capacity (110 mAh g-1) at a fast rate (8 A g-1) and excellent cyclability.
• Demonstrated superior coloration efficiency (79.8 cm2 C-1) under mechanical stress compared to the analogue without the spacer.

Conclusions:

• The π-bridge spacer is crucial for improving ZIB electrochemical and electrochromic performance.
• The developed flexible ZIB shows potential for powering smart electronics with visual feedback.
• This design offers a pathway for multifunctional energy storage devices.