Cushion-Maskant-Regulated Interfacial Chemistry Enables Durable Zinc Metal Anodes

Abstract

Aqueous electrolytes, while conferring inherent safety advantages, inevitably induce hydrogen-evolution corrosion, resulting in nonuniform Zn deposition and shortened cycle life. Herein, a novel electrolyte with buffering function is designed to modulate ion behavior and stabilize interface pH. The introduced additive acts as a cushion maskant (CM) that spontaneously adsorbs onto the Zn metal surface, displacing interfacial water molecules and thereby suppressing corrosion. Simultaneously, its coordination with Zn²⁺ homogenizes the Zn²⁺ flux to promote uniform deposition. Moreover, the protonation/deprotonation equilibria of CM within the electrolyte buffer local pH fluctuations, stabilizing the interfacial microenvironment. Consequently, a beneficial solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) is established, which further shields the Zn anode, enhances interfacial stability, and markedly improves cycling durability. Accordingly, Zn//Zn symmetrical cells in CM-containing electrolyte can realize exceptional lifespan for 2800 h at 2 mA cm⁻² and 970 h even at 10 mA cm⁻². In addition, CM demonstrates the superior practical applicability in Zn//I₂ full cells for long-term and rate tests. Zn//I₂ pouch full cell can operate for 150 mAh with CM. This study offers a distinctive and comprehensive strategy for stabilizing the Zn anode.

Keywords

cushion maskant / in situ pH / modulated ion behavior / pH stability / Zn anode

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2025 The Author(s). Carbon Neutralization published by Wenzhou University and John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd.