Spontaneous anode-molecule interface triggers highly reversible zinc anode
Dong Yan, Qing Sun, Yimei Chen, Wenjing Deng, Hao Zhang, Hongbo Zeng, Guangyi Liu, Xiaolei Wang
Abstract
Uncontrolled dendrite growth and side reactions pose obstacles to the practical implementation of aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs). Here, a cost-effective trace additive, benzohydroxamic acid (BHA), is introduced into a 2.0 M ZnSO4 electrolyte to form a spontaneous anode-molecule interface. Notably, the BHA molecule has strong interactions with Zn2+ ions and can absorb on the anode surface, promoting dynamic transmission and deposition and displaying a role in suppressing side reactions. The impressive cycling stability of the Zn||Zn symmetric cell exceeds 1,400 h at 5.0 mA cm−2 and 5.0 mAh cm−2, achieved by incorporating a trace BHA additive. Furthermore, it endures over 600 hours, even at a relatively high depth of discharge (DOD) of 62.6%. Additionally, under practical conditions (N/P=3.83), the assembled Zn||I2/AC full cell with BHA additives displays stable cycling for 800 cycles at 2.0 A g−1. This innovative strategy provides a cost-effective approach for achieving AZIBs with an extended lifespan.