Interfacial optimization enabling reversible and stable aqueous zinc metal batteries under harsh conditions

Abstract

Aqueous zinc metal batteries (AZMBs) have garnered widespread attention due to their low cost and high safety. However, current researches are still primarily focused on reversible cycling at low areal capacity, which is far from practical application. Addressing interfacial stability issues encountered during cycling and employing interfacial optimization strategies can promote the development of safe and eco-friendly AZMBs. By introducing γ-valerolactone (GVL), which disrupts the original hydrogen bonding network of water, the electrochemical window of electrolyte is expanded, and the reactivity of water is significantly reduced. Additionally, the incorporation of GVL in Zn ion solvation alters the deposition pattern on the Zn anode surface, resulting in improved cyclic performance. The cells demonstrated excellent performance, maintaining stable over 400 h at 5 mA/cm²-5 mA·h/cm², and nearly 300 h in Zn∥Zn symmetric cell at 80% depth of discharge (DOD). The full cells matched with NH₄V₄O₁₀ could cycle over 200 cycles under the condition of high areal capacity (7 mA·h/cm²), an N/P ratio of 1.99 and an E/C ratio of 9.3 µL/(mA·h).

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