A multi-functional polymer coating enabling stable Zn anodes for high performance zinc-ion batteries

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Energy Storage

Background:

• Aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs) offer a safer and more sustainable alternative to conventional batteries.
• The high reactivity of zinc anodes in aqueous electrolytes leads to detrimental side reactions, hindering AZIB performance and lifespan.
• Developing effective strategies to stabilize the zinc anode is crucial for advancing AZIB technology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and implement a novel protective coating for zinc anodes in AZIBs.
• To enhance the stability and electrochemical performance of zinc anodes by mitigating side reactions.
• To investigate the mechanism by which the coating improves zinc deposition and ion transport.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a three-dimensional polyethyleneimine/graphene oxide aerogel.
• Coating the zinc anode with the synthesized aerogel material.
• Electrochemical characterization including cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic cycling, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy.
• Surface analysis techniques to study the morphology and composition of the coated anode.

Main Results:

• The polyethyleneimine/graphene oxide aerogel coating effectively suppressed side reactions at the zinc anode.
• The coating promoted uniform zinc deposition and dendrite-free morphology.
• Enhanced Zn²⁺ diffusion kinetics and reduced ion-migration barriers were observed.
• The modified zinc anode exhibited improved cycling stability and Coulombic efficiency in AZIBs.

Conclusions:

• The developed aerogel coating is a promising strategy for stabilizing zinc anodes in aqueous zinc-ion batteries.
• The coating enhances Zn²⁺ transport and deposition, leading to improved battery performance and longevity.
• This work contributes to the development of safer and more efficient next-generation energy storage systems.