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Closed-loop Recyclable and Robust Supramolecular Hydrogel Electrolytes With High Zinc Ion Mobility for Stable Zinc
Xuming Liu1, Yingang Ma1, Shuang Chen1
1Polymeric and Soft Materials Laboratory, School of Chemistry and Life Science and Advanced Institute of Materials Science, Changchun University of Technology, Changchun, China.
Angewandte Chemie (International Ed. in English)
|July 7, 2026
Summary
This study introduces a novel supramolecular hydrogel electrolyte for safer, more durable zinc-based energy storage systems (ZESs). The G-quadruplex network enhances mechanical strength and ion mobility, enabling long-lasting performance and recyclability.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Electrochemistry
- Polymer Science
Background:
- Hydrogel electrolytes offer safety and conductivity for zinc-based energy storage systems (ZESs).
- Current limitations include poor mechanical strength, low Zn2+ transference, dendrite growth, and non-recyclable matrices.
- Addressing these challenges is crucial for advancing ZES technology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a supramolecular hydrogel electrolyte with enhanced mechanical properties and Zn2+ mobility.
- To overcome the trade-offs associated with conventional hydrogel electrolytes in ZESs.
- To create a recyclable and sustainable electrolyte for improved ZES performance.
Main Methods:
- Incorporation of guanylate quadruplex (G-quadruplex) into a supramolecular hydrogel network.
- Experimental characterization (e.g., electrochemical testing) and theoretical simulations.
- Fabrication and testing of Zn//Zn symmetric cells and zinc-ion hybrid supercapacitors.
Main Results:
- The G-quadruplex network effectively restrains water activity, homogenizes Zn2+ flux, and stabilizes the Zn anode.
- Achieved durable cycling life: 3,800 hours at 1 mA cm-2 and 1,800 hours at 10 mA cm-2 in symmetric cells.
- Zinc-ion hybrid supercapacitors showed 97.4% capacity retention over 10,000 cycles.
- Demonstrated facile depolymerization and recyclability of the hydrogel electrolyte.
Conclusions:
- The supramolecular hydrogel electrolyte overcomes key limitations of traditional hydrogels for ZESs.
- This strategy enables robust mechanical properties, high Zn2+ mobility, and anode stability.
- The developed hydrogel offers a sustainable and recyclable alternative for advanced energy storage systems.
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