Adaptive Thermoresponsive Hydrogels in Aqueous Zinc-Ion Batteries: Opportunities and Challenges

This review systematically summarizes recent advances in employing thermoresponsive polymers to address the challenges of interfacial instability and thermal runaway in aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs), which are promising candidates for safe, low-cost energy storage. The discussion focuses on three innovative regulatory strategies: self-healing electrolytes that autonomously repair interfacial defects through reversible sol-gel transitions; intelligent shutdown mechanisms that rapidly block ion transport at a threshold temperature to prevent thermal runaway; and robust electrolyte systems that maintain performance under extreme conditions by preserving physical integrity and optimizing ion solvation. The established correlation between gel-phase behavior and battery failure mechanisms provides a novel design framework for developing AZIBs with high safety and long cycle life. Finally, future perspectives highlight the need for a rational design framework that links stimuli-responsive behavior to performance, paving the way for the predictive design of adaptive hydrogel systems.