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Zinc-Sponge Battery Electrodes that Suppress Dendrites
Published on: September 29, 2020
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Carbon Dioxide Evolution in Aqueous Zinc Metal Batteries.
Zhenrui Wu1, Yijia Shao1,2, Evan J Hansen1
1School of Engineering, Faculty of Applied Science, The University of British Columbia, Kelowna V1V 1V7, Canada.
ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces
|December 19, 2024
Summary
Carbon dioxide evolution in aqueous zinc batteries is a newly discovered issue. This research identifies its source as cathode carbon corrosion and suggests electrolyte solutions to improve battery performance.
Area of Science:
- Electrochemistry
- Materials Science
- Energy Storage
Background:
- Gas evolution reactions in aqueous zinc metal batteries (AZMBs) lead to performance degradation.
- Previous studies overlooked the complexity of gas evolution, primarily focusing on hydrogen.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the previously unrecognized carbon dioxide evolution reaction (CER) in AZMBs.
- To identify the sources of CER and explore electrolyte strategies for mitigation.
Main Methods:
- Differential electrochemical mass spectrometry (DEMS) to detect gas evolution.
- Carbon isotope tracing to pinpoint the origin of CER.
- Evaluation of six electrolytes for CER resistance.
Main Results:
- CER was detected in V2O5||Zn full cells, particularly at 2.0 V charge potential.
- Electrochemical corrosion of conductive carbon at the cathode was identified as the primary source of CER.
- A weakly solvating electrolyte (3 m Zn(OTf)2 in acetonitrile/water) demonstrated high resistance to CER.
Conclusions:
- This study reveals CER as a significant parasitic reaction in AZMBs.
- Electrolyte design, specifically reducing water solvation, can suppress CER.
- Findings offer insights for enhancing the stability of aqueous metal batteries, including zinc and aluminum systems.
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