A Non-Newtonian Sol Electrolyte with Shear-Thinning Effect for Stable Zn Metal Anodes

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Energy Storage

Background:

• Aqueous zinc metal batteries (AZMBs) offer safe and cost-effective large-scale energy storage.
• Key challenges include zinc dendrite growth, hydrogen evolution, and limited cycling stability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel electrolyte for AZMBs that addresses dendrite formation and improves cycling performance.
• To investigate the properties and performance of a homogeneous non-Newtonian electrolyte (NNE) with shear-thinning characteristics.

Main Methods:

• Preparation of a homogeneous non-Newtonian electrolyte (NNE) by incorporating a thickening polyquaternary ammonium salt.
• Characterization of the NNE's ionic conductivity and viscosity under static and dynamic conditions.
• Evaluation of the NNE's performance in AZMBs, focusing on zinc plating behavior and cycling stability.

Main Results:

• The NNE exhibits high viscosity (200 Pa s) under static conditions, suppressing turbulence and reducing corrosion.
• The NNE demonstrates shear-thinning behavior, enabling flowability during zinc plating and forming a self-adaptive interface.
• The developed NNE maintains high ionic conductivity (52.0 mS cm⁻¹) comparable to liquid electrolytes.
• Significant mitigation of dendrite growth and enhanced local ionic conduction were observed.

Conclusions:

• Homogeneous non-Newtonian electrolytes with shear-thinning properties are a promising strategy for durable AZMBs.
• The NNE design effectively addresses critical challenges in aqueous zinc metal battery technology.
• This work offers a new pathway for developing high-performance and safe energy storage solutions.