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Published on: September 29, 2020
Minimizing galvanic corrosion for durable anode-less aqueous zinc batteries
Yunxiang Zhao1, Xiaotan Zhang2, Rui Yao1
1Institute of Materials Research, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, China.
Nature Communications
|June 10, 2026
Summary
Anode-less aqueous zinc batteries face poor reversibility due to galvanic corrosion. A novel hybrid passivation layer suppresses this corrosion, enabling stable zinc plating and enhancing battery performance and safety.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Electrochemistry
- Energy Storage
Background:
- Anode-less aqueous zinc batteries are promising for safe, energy-dense storage.
- Poor reversibility and zinc loss hinder their practical application.
- Galvanic corrosion between zinc and current collectors is a key degradation pathway.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and address galvanic corrosion in anode-less aqueous zinc batteries.
- To develop a passivation strategy for improved zinc deposition and stability.
- To enhance the cycle life and energy density of these battery systems.
Main Methods:
- Designed a hybrid passivation layer with a polymer matrix and metal fluorides.
- Investigated the layer's effect on interfacial electric fields and zinc deposition.
- Tested the performance of modified anode-less cells under various cycling and aging conditions.
Main Results:
- The hybrid layer mitigated parasitic electron transfer and current collector exposure.
- Homogenized electric fields promoted planar, dense zinc deposition, suppressing corrosion.
- Achieved stable zinc plating/stripping for over 900 hours, 89% capacity retention after 130 cycles, and >90 Wh/L energy density.
Conclusions:
- Galvanic corrosion is a critical factor limiting anode-less aqueous zinc battery performance.
- The developed hybrid passivation layer effectively suppresses corrosion and improves battery stability.
- This work provides a pathway for corrosion-conscious design in metal battery systems.
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