Zinc-Bismuth Binary Alloy Enabling High-Performance Aqueous Zinc Ion Batteries

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Energy Storage

Background:

• Dendrite formation and side reactions in zinc anodes limit the performance and lifespan of aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs).
• Developing stable and efficient anode materials is crucial for advancing AZIB technology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and evaluate a novel zinc-bismuth alloy anode (Zn@Bi) for AZIBs.
• To investigate the mechanisms by which bismuth incorporation mitigates dendrite formation and improves electrochemical performance.

Main Methods:

• Fusion method for synthesizing the Zn@Bi alloy anode.
• Electrochemical characterization, including symmetric cell cycling and full cell performance testing.
• Finite-element simulation and theoretical calculations to understand ion deposition and adsorption behavior.

Main Results:

• The Zn@Bi anode exhibits a high percentage of Zn(002) crystalline surfaces, promoting uniform zinc deposition.
• Bismuth addition effectively suppresses hydrogen evolution reactions and anode corrosion.
• Zn@Bi//Zn@Bi symmetric cells achieved a cycle life of 1000 hours.
• A Zn@Bi//MnO2 full cell maintained a specific capacity of 119.3 mAh g⁻¹ after 1700 cycles at 1.2 A g⁻¹.

Conclusions:

• The Zn@Bi alloy anode is a promising candidate for developing dendrite-free and long-lasting AZIBs.
• The study demonstrates a viable strategy for enhancing anode stability through alloy design and surface engineering.
• This work contributes to the advancement of safer and more efficient aqueous rechargeable batteries.