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Zinc-Sponge Battery Electrodes that Suppress Dendrites
Published on: September 29, 2020
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Gradient fluorinated and hierarchical selective adsorption coating for Zn-Based aqueous battery
Ming Zhang1, Yunhui Lin1, Jintian Wu1
1School of Materials and Energy, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 611731, China.
Journal of Colloid and Interface Science
|August 14, 2023
Summary
This study introduces a novel coating for rechargeable aqueous zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs) that prevents dendrite growth and side reactions. The new electrode design significantly enhances battery lifespan and stability for energy storage applications.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Electrochemistry
- Energy Storage
Background:
- Rechargeable aqueous zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs) offer high energy density, low cost, and safety for large-scale energy storage.
- However, practical application is hindered by zinc dendrite growth and electrolyte side reactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a multifunctional gradient composite coating to address dendrite formation and side reactions in ZIBs.
- To enhance the stability and cycle life of aqueous zinc-ion batteries.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of a gradient composite fluorinated coating with ZnF2 (outside) and Zn/Sn alloy (inside).
- Utilized Density Functional Theory (DFT) and Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations to analyze coating mechanisms.
- Symmetrical cell testing and full battery testing (ZnF2-Sn@Zn//MnO2@CNT).
Main Results:
- The ZnF2 layer effectively regulated Zn2+ transport, limited water molecules, and improved Zn2+ dissolution.
- The Zn/Sn alloy acted as nucleation sites, lowering the Zn2+ diffusion energy barrier.
- The ZnF2-Sn@Zn electrode demonstrated a cycle life of ~1400 hours in a symmetrical cell and 91% capacity retention after 1400 cycles in a full battery.
Conclusions:
- The multifunctional gradient composite coating is a promising strategy for improving ZIB performance.
- The study provides new insights into electrolyte and anode interface design for safer and more durable zinc-ion batteries.

