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Synergistic Anode and Cathode Stabilization in Aqueous Zn-Ion Batteries via a pH-Stabilizing and Interface-Adsorbing
1Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
Small (Weinheim an Der Bergstrasse, Germany)
|January 21, 2026
Summary
5-Sulfosalicylic Acid (SSA) stabilizes aqueous zinc-ion batteries by preventing dendrite growth and improving cathode performance. This additive enhances zinc anode cycling and full cell stability, paving the way for practical energy storage.
Area of Science:
- Electrochemistry
- Materials Science
- Energy Storage
Background:
- Aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs) show promise but face challenges like zinc dendrites, anode corrosion, and cathode degradation.
- Current electrolyte strategies often overlook alkaline byproduct formation and cathode-anode interactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a multifunctional electrolyte additive for stabilizing both zinc anodes and cathodes in AZIBs.
- To investigate the synergistic effects of 5-Sulfosalicylic Acid (SSA) on AZIB performance.
Main Methods:
- Incorporation of 5-Sulfosalicylic Acid (SSA) into a Zinc Sulfate (ZSO) electrolyte.
- Electrochemical testing of zinc plating/stripping, Zn//PANI full cells, and pouch cells.
Main Results:
- SSA stabilizes interfacial pH, promotes oriented zinc deposition on the Zn (002) plane, and enhances polyaniline (PANI) cathode performance.
- Achieved high Coulombic efficiency (~99.8%) for Zn plating/stripping over 2000 hours.
- Demonstrated excellent rate capability and long-term cycling stability (72% capacity retention after 1500 cycles at 3 A g-1).
- Pouch cells maintained performance for 200 cycles under demanding conditions (high mass loading, lean electrolyte).
Conclusions:
- SSA is an effective multifunctional additive for co-stabilizing zinc anodes and cathodes in AZIBs.
- The developed electrolyte significantly improves the electrochemical performance and cycling stability of AZIBs, addressing key limitations for practical applications.
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