Functionalized separator strategies accelerate the development of zinc-ion batteries

Zinc-ion batteries have garnered significant attention owing to their high energy density, environmental sustainability, and cost-effectiveness. However, challenges such as zinc dendrite formation, hydrogen evolution, inert by-products, and zinc metal corrosion have substantially impeded the practical application of these batteries. Recently, functional modification of separators has emerged as a promising strategy to address these issues. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the research advancements in the functional modification of separators for zinc-ion batteries, elaborating on various modification approaches such as surface coating, composite material synthesis, and the development of hybrid structures. Furthermore, it elucidates the underlying mechanisms of these modifications and their applications in zinc-ion batteries. By critically analyzing the current technological limitations, this review proposes future development directions, such as exploring new materials and designing multi-functional separators, aiming to provide valuable guidance for advancing zinc-ion battery technology.