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High-Entropy Oxide Coating for Stabilizing Zn Metal Anodes in Aqueous Zn-Ion Batteries
Chao Geng1,2,3, Wei Wen4, Hai-Feng Li1
1Institute of Applied Physics and Materials Engineering, University of Macau, Avenida Da Universidade, Taipa, China.
Small (Weinheim an Der Bergstrasse, Germany)
|May 7, 2026
Summary
A novel high-entropy oxide coating stabilizes zinc anodes in rechargeable aqueous zinc-ion batteries. This protective layer prevents dendrite growth and corrosion, enabling extended cycling life and safer battery operation.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Electrochemistry
- Energy Storage
Background:
- Rechargeable aqueous zinc-ion batteries offer safety and cost benefits but suffer from zinc anode instability.
- Key challenges include zinc dendrite growth, hydrogen evolution, and corrosion, limiting practical applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a protective artificial interphase for zinc anodes using a high-entropy oxide.
- To enhance the stability and cycling performance of zinc anodes in aqueous electrolytes.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of a homogeneous high-entropy oxide powder (Co0.2Cu0.2Mg0.2Ni0.2Zn0.2)O with a rock-salt structure.
- Characterization of the oxide layer's properties for Zn2+ adsorption, ion migration, hydrophobicity, and desolvation.
- Electrochemical testing of modified zinc anodes in ZnSO4 and seawater-based electrolytes, including full cell assembly with an I2 cathode.
Main Results:
- The high-entropy oxide interphase facilitated uniform Zn2+ adsorption and migration, suppressing side reactions.
- Modified anodes achieved ultralong cycling stability: 1800 h at 10 mA cm-2 in 2 M ZnSO4 and 750 h in seawater.
- Compositional variation (Co0.2Cu0.2Mn0.2Ni0.2Zn0.2)O also showed robust cycling (>1300 h at 10 mA cm-2).
- Full cells demonstrated enhanced electrochemical performance.
Conclusions:
- High-entropy materials can simultaneously accelerate Zn2+ transport kinetics and homogenize zinc deposition.
- This strategy offers a promising approach for stabilizing zinc metal anodes in aqueous batteries.
- The developed protective layer significantly improves the lifespan and safety of rechargeable aqueous zinc-ion batteries.
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