Bio-Inspired Trace Hydroxyl-Rich Electrolyte Additives for High-Rate and Stable Zn-Ion Batteries at Low Temperatures

High-rate and stable Zn-ion batteries working at low temperatures are highly desirable for practical applications, but are challenged by sluggish kinetics and severe corrosion. Herein, inspired by frost-resistant plants, we report trace hydroxyl-rich electrolyte additives that implement a dual remodeling effect for high-performance low-temperature Zn-ion batteries. The additive with high Zn absorbability not only remodels Zn2+ primary solvent shell by alternating H2O molecules, but also forms a shielding layer thus remodeling the Zn surface, which effectively enhances fast Zn2+ de-solvation reaction kinetics and prohibits Zn anode corrosion. Taking trace alpha-D-glucose (alpha DG) as a demonstration, the electrolyte obtains a low freezing point of -55.3 degrees C, and the Zn//Zn cell can stably cycle for 2000 h at 5 mA cm-2 under -25 degrees C, with a high cumulative capacity of 5000 mAh cm-2. A full battery that stably operates for 10000 cycles at -50 degrees C is also demonstrated. Trace hydroxyl-rich electrolyte additives are inspired by frost-resistant plants, which implements a dual remodeling effect on Zn2+ solvation shell and Zn surface molecules, facilitating long-term stable and high-rate Zn-ion batteries at ultra-low temperatures.+ image