Electrochromic zinc-ion batteries: recent progress, challenges and perspectives.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Energy Storage

Background:

• Electrochromic technologies enable smart devices but face cost and fabrication barriers.
• Integrated systems combining energy storage and visualization are emerging.
• Electrochromic zinc-ion batteries (ECZIBs) show promise due to higher energy density compared to electrochromic supercapacitors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the structure, performance, and materials of ECZIBs.
• To highlight recent advancements in cathode, anode, and electrolyte materials for ECZIBs.
• To identify challenges and propose strategies for ECZIB performance enhancement and deployment.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review of ECZIB research.
• Analysis of fundamental ECZIB structure and performance metrics.
• Focus on material design and recent progress in ECZIB components.

Main Results:

• ECZIBs exhibit superior energy density compared to ECSCs, making them suitable for smart energy storage.
• Recent progress has been made in developing advanced cathode, anode, and electrolyte materials.
• Key bottlenecks in performance and practical application have been identified.

Conclusions:

• ECZIBs are a promising technology for next-generation smart energy storage.
• Overcoming current material and fabrication challenges is crucial for widespread adoption.
• Future research should focus on innovative material design and system integration for ECZIBs.