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In Situ Formation of an In-Zn Interface Layer Enables Aqueous Zinc-Ions Batteries with High Capacity Retention
Youwei Jiang1, Jinghao Li2, Jie Huang2
1School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Life Sciences, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
Advanced Science (Weinheim, Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany)
|April 14, 2026
Summary
Researchers developed an In-Zn interface layer to improve aqueous zinc ion battery stability by enabling uniform zinc deposition and suppressing side reactions. This strategy significantly enhances battery lifespan and performance.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Electrochemistry
- Energy Storage
Background:
- Aqueous zinc ion batteries (AZIBs) face stability challenges due to side reactions like uneven zinc deposition and hydrogen evolution.
- Inhibiting these side reactions is crucial for enhancing AZIB performance and longevity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a strategy for uniform zinc deposition and reduced hydrogen evolution in AZIBs.
- To improve the overall stability and cycle life of AZIBs through interface engineering.
Main Methods:
- Constructing an in situ formed Indium-Zinc (In-Zn) interface layer between the separator and the zinc anode.
- Utilizing indium zinc oxide (IZO) as an activator, which is reduced to indium during cycling.
- Investigating the effect of the In-Zn interface on Zn2+ transport, zinc nucleation/growth, and hydrogen evolution potential.
Main Results:
- The In-Zn interface layer promotes uniform zinc deposition and accelerates Zn2+ transport.
- The hydrogen evolution potential shifted favorably, reducing unwanted side reactions.
- Symmetrical cells achieved over 5000 hours of lifespan, and full cells demonstrated high capacity retention (80.72% after 6000 cycles).
Conclusions:
- The in situ formed In-Zn interface layer is an effective strategy to enhance AZIB stability and performance.
- This approach is versatile and applicable to AZIBs with different electrolytes and cathode materials.
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