Two-Dimensional Layered Materials for Aqueous Zinc-Ion Batteries: Multifunctional Roles and Mechanistic Insights

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Energy Storage

Background:

• Aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs) are promising for grid-scale energy storage.
• Key challenges include zinc anode dendrites, corrosion, and cathode limitations.
• Two-dimensional (2D) layered materials show potential to address these issues.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the applications of 2D layered materials in AZIBs.
• To provide a mechanistic understanding of their functional roles.
• To identify future research directions for high-performance AZIBs.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of 2D layered materials in AZIBs.
• Analysis of mechanisms for dendrite inhibition and cathode enhancement.
• Examination of electrolyte additive and separator roles.

Main Results:

• 2D materials act as protective anode layers, inhibiting dendrite growth and side reactions like HER.
• They serve as high-capacity cathode hosts, improving stability and kinetics.
• 2D materials function as advanced separators and electrolyte additives, enhancing ion transport.

Conclusions:

• 2D layered materials are crucial for overcoming AZIB limitations, enabling safer and more efficient batteries.
• Further research is needed for scalable production and commercial deployment of these advanced materials in AZIBs.