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Programming Ion-Engineered Interphase for Practical Zinc Batteries Through Exogenous Cation-Anion Synergy Chemistry
Qiwen Zhao1, Yuejiao Chen1, Wen Liu1
1State Key Laboratory of Powder Metallurgy, Central South University, Changsha, P. R. China.
Angewandte Chemie (International Ed. in English)
|August 14, 2026
Summary
Researchers developed a new method for stable batteries by controlling interfaces using cation-anion synergy. This approach enhances zinc-ion battery cycling and longevity.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Electrochemistry
- Energy Storage
Background:
- A stable anode-electrolyte interface is crucial for effective battery cycling.
- Challenges exist in adapting anion-derived interphases from lithium-ion to aqueous zinc-ion batteries due to narrow electrochemical windows and complex reactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To engineer a stable anode-electrolyte interphase in aqueous zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs) by programming interphase formation using exogenous cation-anion synergy.
- To overcome limitations of ZIBs by creating a dynamically regulated interfacial environment that prevents parasitic reactions.
Main Methods:
- Utilized hydrolysable anions to rapidly form an inorganic-rich interphase.
- Employed weakly hydrated, bulky cations with low ionic potential as electrostatic shields and anion receptors.
- Introduced tetramethylfluorourea hexafluorophosphate into a zinc sulfate electrolyte for controlled interphase formation.
Main Results:
- Achieved a composite interphase (ZnF2, ZnS, ZnO, C─N species) that enhances Zn2+ transport and promotes uniform zinc deposition.
- Demonstrated exceptional cycling stability in Zn//Zn cells (e.g., 3400 hours at 1 mA cm-2).
- Showcased improved cycling stability in Zn//KVO full cells and pouch cells.
Conclusions:
- Exogenous cation-anion pairing is a practical strategy for engineering stable interphases in ZIBs.
- The developed method offers a pathway to overcome interfacial challenges in aqueous zinc-ion energy storage.
- This research provides a new paradigm for designing high-performance ZIBs.
Keywords:
battery energy storageelectrochemistryelectrolytehexafluorophosphateinterphasematerials sciencezincMore Related Videos
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