Interfacial Engineering of Zn Metal via a Localized Conjugated Layer for Highly Reversible Aqueous Zinc Ion Battery

• DOI: 10.1002/ange.202319091
• Publication Date: 2024-02-03T03:30:15Z
• Authors: Zhenjie Liu; Guanjie Li; Murong Xi; Yudai Huang; Haobo Li; Huanyu Jin; Juan Ding; Shilin Zhang; Chaofeng Zhang; Zaiping Guo
• Keywords: Molecular engineering

Abstract Aqueous zinc‐ion batteries are regarded as promising and efficient energy storage systems owing to remarkable safety satisfactory capacity. Nevertheless, the instability of zinc metal anodes, characterized by issues such dendrite growth parasitic side reactions, poses a significant barrier widespread applications. Herein, we address this challenge designing localized conjugated structure comprising cyclic polyacrylonitrile polymer (CPANZ), induced Zn 2+ ‐based Lewis acid (zinc trifluoromethylsulfonate) at temperature 120 °C. The CPANZ layer on anode, enriched with appropriate pyridine nitrogen‐rich groups (conjugated −C=N−), exhibits notable affinity for ample deposition sites. This zincophilic skeleton not only serves protective guide but also functions proton channel blocker, regulating flux mitigate hydrogen evolution. Additionally, strong adhesion strength guarantees its sustained protection during long‐term cycling. As result, modified electrode demonstrates long cycle life high durability in both half‐cell pouch cells. These findings present feasible approach performance aqueous anodes introducing layer.