Strain-Modulated Deposition Mechanism on a Flexible Zinc Anode.

Flexible aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs) are considered one of the most attractive flexible devices owing to their high theoretical capacity, low cost, and high security. However, the formation of Zn dendrites and the poor flexibility of the Zn material greatly impede the application of wearable AZIBs. Herein, by transferring graphene onto the surface of polyethylene terephthalate-indium tin oxide (PET-ITO-G), a substrate combining excellent flexibility and dendrite suppression ability was prepared.

Epitaxy Orientation and Kinetics Diagnosis for Zinc Electrodeposition.

An accurate assessment of the electrodeposition mechanism is essential for evaluating the electrochemical stability and reversibility of the metal anodes. Multiple strategies aimed at uniform Zn deposition have been extensively reported, yet it is challenging to clarify the Zn crystal growth regularity and activity due to the obscured physicochemical properties of as-deposited Zn. Herein, we present a protocol for elucidating the controlled epitaxial growth process of Zn crystals and quantifying their surface electrochemical activity using scanning electrochemical microscopy.

3D MXene/PVA Aerogel Enabling a Dendrite-Free Zn Metal Anode.

Aqueous zinc-ion batteries have attracted widespread attention due to their low cost and high safety. Unfortunately, their commercial applications are greatly inhibited by the negative effects of zinc dendrites and side reactions. A solution that utilizes a 3D host can help mitigate these issues.

Interphase Modulated Early-Stage Zn Electrodeposition Mechanism.

Zn electrodeposition mechanism is a cornerstone of dendritic issue exploration in Zn-ion battery. Investigation of the inherent early-stage Zn plating kinetics and its dependence on the reactivity of anode-electrolyte interphase is crucial. Herein, the kinetic evolution of Zn plating on three characteristic substrates is quantified: fresh Zn, commercial Zn foil, and Zn foil with spontaneously generated solid-electrolyte interphase (SEI).