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Hierarchical Dendrite-Trapping 3D-Printed Polymer-Coated Zn Anode toward Ultra-Stable Cycling at High Current
Yicheng Wang1, Chenglong Chen1, Ru Cheng1
1School of Materials Science & Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China.
ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces
|January 25, 2026
Summary
Researchers developed a 3D-printed, high-safety zinc anode coated with poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG). This innovative aqueous zinc-ion battery (AZIB) anode suppresses dendrite formation and corrosion, enhancing battery performance and safety for complex electronics.
Area of Science:
- Electrochemistry
- Materials Science
- Energy Storage
Background:
- Aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs) are promising alternatives to lithium-ion batteries.
- Zinc powder anodes offer design flexibility for complex electronics but suffer from corrosion and dendrite issues.
- Existing zinc foil anodes have limitations in geometric customization and safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a safe, high-performance zinc powder-based anode for AZIBs.
- To address challenges of corrosion and dendrite formation in zinc powder anodes.
- To enable scalable and cost-effective electrode production for advanced batteries.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of a 3D-printed zinc powder anode.
- Coating the 3D anode with poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG).
- Characterization of electrochemical performance, dendrite suppression, and corrosion resistance.
Main Results:
- The 3D Zn@PEG anode effectively traps dendrites and enhances energy density.
- PEG coating suppresses hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and regulates Zn2+ deposition/stripping.
- Demonstrated outstanding deposition/stripping capability, high-rate performance, and prolonged cycling stability.
Conclusions:
- The 3D-printed, PEG-coated zinc anode offers a scalable and cost-effective solution for dendrite-resistant AZIBs.
- This approach enhances battery safety and performance, paving the way for industrial-scale electrode manufacturing.
- The developed anode technology is suitable for next-generation energy storage devices requiring geometric customization.
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