Dynamic Zn/Electrolyte Interphase and Enhanced Cation Transfer of Sol Electrolyte for All-Climate Aqueous Zinc Metal Batteries

Abstract

Zn metal as one of the promising anodes of aqueous batteries possesses notable advantages, but it faces severe challenges from severe side reactions and notorious dendrite growth. Here, ultrathin nanosheets of α-zirconium phosphate (ZrP) are explored as an electrolyte additive. The nanosheets not only create a dynamic and reversible interphase on Zn but also promote the Zn²⁺ transportation in the electrolyte, especially in the outer Helmholtz plane near ZrP. Benefited from the enhanced kinetics and dynamic interphase, the pouch cells of Zn||LiMn₂ O₄ using this electrolyte remarkably improve electrochemical performance under harsh conditions, i.e. Zn powders as the Zn anode, high mass loading, and wide temperatures. The results expand the materials available for this dynamic interphase, provide an insightful understanding of the enhanced charge transfer in the electrolyte, and realize the combination of dynamic interphase and enhanced kinetics for all-climate performance.

Keywords: Aqueous Batteries; Dynamic Interphase; Helmholtz Plane; Sol Electrolyte; Zinc Metal.