Advancements and Challenges in Aqueous Zinc-Iodine Batteries: Strategies for Enhanced Performance and Stability

Abstract

Aqueous zinc-iodine batteries (AZIBs) offer intrinsic safety, low cost, and high theoretical capacity, yet their practical performance is hindered by three coupled challenges: polyiodide shuttling that depletes active material and reduces coulombic efficiency; sluggish I₂/I⁻/

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redox kinetics that limit rate capability; and uncontrolled zinc dendrite growth that causes anode instability and parasitic reactions. This review summarizes recent advances addressing these issues across four domains. Cathode strategies include carbon-based hosts (hierarchical porosity, heteroatom doping, surface functionalization, electrocatalyst integration), ordered mesoporous frameworks, polymer matrices, iodine-containing perovskites, and emerging carriers. Anode designs involving artificial interfacial layers, three-dimensional zinc scaffolds, and anode-free configurations are evaluated for their ability to regulate Zn²⁺ flux and suppress dendrites. Separator and membrane modifications that block iodide crossover while maintaining ion transport are evaluated. Electrolyte developments encompass aqueous formulations with functional additives, water-in-salt systems, and solid/quasi-solid electrolytes that enhance stability and mechanical robustness. The review concludes with perspectives on key research priorities, including complete shuttle suppression, accelerated redox kinetics, durable dendrite control, and system-level feasibility through integrated material and interface engineering. This concise overview aims to guide the rational design of next-generation AZIBs with enhanced performance and durability.

Graphical Abstract

Keywords

Aqueous zinc-iodine batteries / Zinc dendrites / Iodine shuttle effect / Aqueous electrolyte / Energy storage devices

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Funding

National Natural Science Foundation of China(52477213)

Science and Technology Innovative Research Team in Higher Educational Institutions of Hunan Province(No.2022RC1088)

Scientific Research Foundation of Hunan Provincial Education Department(23A0442)

Shenzhen Municipal Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Modulation, Chinese Academy of Sciences(No. ZDSYS20220401141000001)

High level of special funds(No. G03034K001)

RIGHTS & PERMISSIONS

Shanghai University and Periodicals Agency of Shanghai University