A Mesoporous Ferroelectric Separator for Inner Helmholtz Plane Homogenization Enabling Zinc Anode with High...

Area of Science:

• Electrochemistry
• Materials Science
• Energy Storage

Background:

• Aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs) offer safe and cost-effective energy storage.
• Poor zinc anode reversibility and dendrite formation hinder AZIB practical application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a mesoporous ferroelectric separator to enhance zinc anode reversibility in AZIBs.
• To mitigate parasitic reactions and improve zinc plating morphology.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a mesoporous ferroelectric separator.
• Electrochemical testing of zinc anodes with the separator in aqueous electrolytes.
• Analysis of ion distribution and parasitic reaction suppression.

Main Results:

• The ferroelectric separator promotes uniform hydrated zinc ion distribution.
• Suppression of hydrogen evolution and hydroxide formation observed.
• Stable zinc stripping/plating over 4000 cycles with minimal dendrite formation achieved.

Conclusions:

• The ferroelectric separator effectively regulates the inner Helmholtz plane structure.
• This approach offers a practical, low-cost solution for advancing AZIB technology.
• Enhanced zinc anode reversibility paves the way for commercial AZIB applications.