Anode Modification of Aqueous Rechargeable Zinc-Ion Batteries for Preventing Dendrite Growth: A Review

Aqueous rechargeable zinc-ion batteries are suitable for the demands of electrochemical energy storage due to their low cost, high theoretical capacity, power density, and safety. Nevertheless, the anode surface with an uneven electrical field causes the dispersive distribution that can form dendrites and lead to hydrogen evolution during the stripping and plating process, resulting in decreasing cyclability with a rapid capacity fade. Consequently, to solve these problems, the effective strategy of zinc anode is promoted to regulate the interaction that generates on the interface between electrolyte and electrode. In this article, first the challenges of aqueous rechargeable zinc-ion batteries are discussed and the mechanisms of energy storage and dendrite growth are reviewed. Then, the authors conclude recent research related to modifications of the anode, including surface coating, structural modification, and alloyed or semiliquid anode. Finally, the existing challenges and prospects of aqueous rechargeable zinc-ion batteries are proposed to provide guidance for future development and boost practical applications. Anode modification of aqueous rechargeable zinc-ion batteries for preventing dendrite growth.image (c) 2023 WILEY-VCH GmbH