Search Results (49)

The rechargeable zinc-iodine (Zn-I₂) battery is a promising energy storage system due to its high theoretical capacity, low cost, and safety. So far, most researchers agree that the poor electrical conductivity of iodine and the shuttling of polyiodide lead to a rapid decrease in capacity and low coulombic efficiency (CE) during cycling, which seriously hinders their further development and application. Herein, to understand the polyidide shuttling effects in Zn-I₂ battery, we utilize I₃⁻/I⁻ electrolytes as the active capacity source coupled with carbon cloth, devoid-of-iodine (I₂) loading cathode, to simulate the behavior of the shuttling of polyidide in the Zn-I₂ battery, based on the concept of a dual-ion battery system. Experiments show that these batteries exhibit a specific capacity of 0.24 mAh·cm⁻² at 1.0 A·cm⁻² and 0.2 mAh·cm⁻² at 20 A·cm⁻², corresponding to 1.0~1.3 mg active mass of I₂, based on the 2I⁻/I₂ redox couple (221 mAh·g⁻¹). It is noteworthy that the inclusion of polyiodide enhances the electrochemical and redox activity, which is advantageous for electrochemical performance; however, it is limited to the polyiodine reduction on the Zn surface (Zn + I₃⁻ → 3I⁻ + Zn²⁺). Full article

Despite their inherently lower energy density than lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), aqueous zinc metal batteries (AZMBs) have recently attracted interest as rechargeable energy storage devices due to their low cost and high operational and environmental safety. They are composed of metallic zinc as the anode, an aqueous zinc salt electrolyte and a cathode capable of (de)intercalating Zn²⁺ ions upon its (oxidation) reduction reaction. In this work, we studied a hybrid AZMB in which a dual-ion electrolyte containing both Zn²⁺ and Li⁺ ions was used in conjunction with a Li⁺ ion intercalation cathode, i.e., LiFePO₄ (LFP), one of the most common, reliable, and cheap cathodes for LIBs. In this study, we present evidence that, thanks to its insolubility in water, ethyl cellulose (EC) can be effectively utilized as a binder for cathode membranes in AZMBs. Furthermore, its solubility in alcohol provides a significant advantage in avoiding the use of toxic solvents, contributing to a safer and more environmentally friendly approach to the formulation process. Full article

Zinc–manganese dioxide (Zn–MnO₂) batteries, pivotal in primary energy storage, face challenges in rechargeability due to cathode dissolution and anode corrosion. This review summarizes cathode-free designs using pH-optimized electrolytes and modified electrodes/current collectors. For electrolytes, while acidic systems with additives (PVP, HAc) enhance ion transport, dual-electrolyte configurations (ion-selective membranes/hydrogels) reduce Zn corrosion. Near-neutral strategies utilize nanomicelles/complexing agents to regulate MnO₂ deposition. Moreover, mediators (I⁻, Br⁻, Cr³⁺) reactivate MnO₂ but require shuttle-effect control. For the electrodes/current collectors, electrode innovations including SEI/CEI layers and surfactant-driven phase tuning are introduced. Electrode-free designs and integrated “supercapattery” systems combining supercapacitors with Zn–MnO₂/I₂ chemistries are also discussed. This review highlights electrolyte–electrode synergy and hybrid device potential, paving the way for sustainable, high-performance Zn–MnO₂ systems. Full article

Solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) are gaining attention as viable alternatives to traditional aqueous electrolytes in zinc–air batteries (ZABs), owing to their enhanced performance and stability. In this study, anion-exchange solid polymer electrolytes (A-SPEs) were synthesized via electrophilic aromatic substitution and substitution reactions. Thin films were prepared using the solvent casting method and characterized using proton nuclear magnetic resonance (¹H-NMR), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The ion-exchange capacity (IEC), KOH uptake, ionic conductivity, and battery performance were also obtained by varying the degree of functionalization of the A-SPEs (30 and 120%, denoted as PSf30/PSf120, respectively). The IEC analysis revealed that PSf120 exhibited a higher quantity of functional groups, enhancing its hydroxide conductivity, which reached a value of 22.19 mS cm⁻¹. In addition, PSf120 demonstrated a higher power density (70 vs. 50 mW cm⁻²) and rechargeability than benchmarked Fumapem FAA-3-50 A-SPE. Postmortem analysis further confirmed the lower formation of ZnO for PSf120, indicating the improved stability and reduced passivation of the zinc electrode. Therefore, this type of A-SPE could improve the performance and rechargeability of all-solid-state ZABs. Full article

Multi-component electrolyte additives may significantly contribute to improving the performance of rechargeable aqueous zinc-ion batteries. Herein, we propose a mixed electrolyte system employing polyethylene glycol 200 (PEG200) and quaternized kraft lignin (QKL) as co-additives in Zn//MnO₂ batteries. Reduced corrosion and the suppression of the hydrogen evolution reaction on the zinc electrode were achieved when 0.5 wt.% of PEG200 and 0.2 wt.% of QKL were added to the reference aqueous electrolyte. This optimized electrolyte, 0.5% PEG200 + 0.2% QKL, was conducive to improving Zn reversibility in Zn//Zn symmetric batteries and resulted in higher cycling stability, with a coulombic efficiency of 98.01% under 1 mA cm⁻² and 1 mAh cm⁻² for Zn//Cu cells. Furthermore, Zn//MnO₂ full batteries with 0.5% PEG200 + 0.2% QKL presented good overall electrochemical performance and exhibited a decent discharge capacity of around 85 mAh g⁻¹ after 2000 cycles at 1.5 A g⁻¹. As confirmed by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy, a dominant (002) oriental dendrite-free Zn deposition was achieved on the zinc anode of the battery using 0.5% PEG200 + 0.2% QKL, and the byproducts were also reduced significantly. This study has contributed to the development of electrolyte co-additives for zinc-ion batteries. Full article

Abstract: With the continuous development of science and technology, battery storage systems for clean energy have become crucial for global economic transformation. Among various rechargeable batteries, lithium-ion batteries are widely used, but face issues like limited resources, high costs, and safety concerns. In contrast, zinc-ion batteries, as a complement to lithium-ion batteries, are drawing increasing attention. In the exploration of zinc-ion batteries, especially of phosphate-based cathodes, the battery action mechanism has a profound impact on the battery performance. In this paper, we first review the interaction mechanism of multi-ion, dual-ion, and single-ion water zinc batteries. Then, the impact of the above mechanisms on battery performance was discussed. Finally, the application prospects of the effective use of multi-ion, dual-ion, and single-ion intercalation technology in zinc-ion batteries is reviewed, which has significance for guiding the development of rechargeable water zinc-ion batteries in the future. Full article

Vanadium-based materials have the advantages of abundant valence states and stable structures, having great application potential as cathode materials in metal-ion batteries. However, their low voltage and vanadium dissolution in traditional water-based electrolytes greatly limit their application and development in aqueous zinc metal batteries (AZMBs). Herein, phosphate- and vanadium-based cathode materials (MnVOPO₄·2H₂O) with stacked layers and few defects were prepared via a condensation reflux method and then combined with a high-concentration electrolyte (21 m LiTFSI + 1 M Zn(CF₃SO₃)₂) to address these limitations. The specific capacity and cycle stability accompanying the stable high voltage of 1.39 V were significantly enhanced compared with those for the traditional electrolyte of 3 M Zn(CF₃SO₃)₂, benefiting from the suppressed vanadium dissolution. The cathode materials of MnVOPO₄·2H₂O achieved a high specific capacity of 152 mAh g⁻¹ at 0.2 A g⁻¹, with a retention rate of 86% after 100 cycles for AZMBs. A high energy density of 211.78 Wh kg⁻¹ was also achieved. This strategy could illuminate the significance of electrolyte modification and provide potential high-voltage cathode materials for AZMBs and other rechargeable batteries. Full article

Rechargeable zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs) have grown in popularity due to their low cost and the abundance of resources. However, there has been little research into the development of gel polymer electrolytes (GPEs) for high voltage and capacity ZIBs. The use of agricultural waste as a polymer electrolyte (PE) is gradually increasing in order to support a circular economy. This study focuses on the utilization of cellulose derived from coffee silverskin (CS); coffee silverskin is a by-product generated during coffee roasting. We employ a reasonable approach to create the coffee silverskin cellulose (CSC)/polyacrylamide (PAM) GPE, with the goal of achieving good properties and improved battery performance. An investigation was conducted to determine the effect of CSC content in GPEs on ZIB characteristics. The cellulose derived from CS had a crystallinity index (CrI) of 64.60%. The optimal amount of cellulose added to the acrylamide monomer (AM) for the GPE of ZIB was found to be 2.5 mg (CSC/AM/salt weight ratio of 0.01/6/23). This amount resulted in the highest electrochemical stability and a cycling time of approximately 226 h. Furthermore, the PAM/Cellulose 2.5-based GPE exhibited increased Young’s modulus and tensile strength compared to the pure PAM. The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) test revealed a diffusion resistance of 27.47 Ω and an ionic conductivity of 9.10 mS/cm at a temperature of 25 °C. Additionally, the use of cellulose in GPEs does not affect the electrochemical window. When the pure PAM-based GPE was compared to the CSC/PAM-based GPE, the biocomposites demonstrated electrochemical stability for a cycle life of over 200 cycles in the ZIB application. Full article

Graphene-based materials (GBMs) are a prospective material of choice for rechargeable battery electrodes because of their unique set of qualities, which include tunable interlayer channels, high specific surface area, and strong electrical conductivity characteristics. The market for commercial rechargeable batteries is now dominated by lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). One of the primary factors impeding the development of new energy vehicles and large-scale energy storage applications is the safety of LIBs. Zinc-based rechargeable batteries have emerged as a viable substitute for rechargeable batteries due to their affordability, safety, and improved performance. This review article explores recent developments in the synthesis and advancement of GBMs for rechargeable zinc–air batteries (ZABs) and common graphene-based electrocatalyst types. An outlook on the difficulties and probable future paths of this extremely promising field of study is provided at the end. Full article

Aqueous zinc−ion batteries (ZIBs) are widely recognized as highly promising energy storage devices because of their inherent characteristics, including superior safety, affordability, eco−friendliness, and various other benefits. However, the significant corrosion of the zinc metal anode, side reactions occurring between the anode and electrolyte, and the formation of zinc dendrites significantly hinder the practical utilization of ZIBs. Herein, we utilized an electrodeposition method to apply a unique hydrous molybdenum oxide (HMoO_x) layer onto the surface of the zinc metal anode, aiming to mitigate its corrosion and side reactions during the process of zinc deposition and stripping. In addition, the HMoO_x layer not only improved the hydrophilicity of the zinc anode, but also adjusted the migration of Zn²⁺, thus facilitating the uniform deposition of Zn²⁺ to reduce dendrite formation. A symmetrical cell with the HMoO_x−Zn anode displayed reduced−voltage hysteresis (80 mV at 2.5 mA/cm²) and outstanding cycle stability after 3000 cycles, surpassing the performance of the uncoated Zn anode. Moreover, the HMoO_x−Zn anode coupled with a γ−MnO₂ cathode created a considerably more stable rechargeable full battery compared to the bare Zn anode. The HMoO_x−Zn||γ−MnO₂ full cell also displayed excellent cycling stability with a charge/discharge−specific capacity of 129/133 mAh g⁻¹ after 300 cycles. In summary, this research offers a straightforward and advantageous approach that can significantly contribute to the future advancements in rechargeable ZIBs. Full article

Rechargeable aqueous zinc-ion batteries have attracted a lot of attention owing to their cost effectiveness and plentiful resources, but less research has been conducted on the aspect of high volumetric energy density, which is crucial to the space available for the batteries in practical applications. In this work, highly crystalline V₂O₅ microspheres were self-assembled from one-dimensional V₂O₅ nanorod structures by a template-free solvothermal method, which were used as cathode materials for zinc-ion batteries with high performance, enabling fast ion transport, outstanding cycle stability and excellent rate capability, as well as a significant increase in tap density. Specifically, the V₂O₅ microspheres achieve a reversible specific capacity of 414.7 mAh g⁻¹ at 0.1 A g⁻¹, and show a long-term cycling stability retaining 76.5% after 3000 cycles at 2 A g⁻¹. This work provides an efficient route for the synthesis of three-dimensional materials with stable structures, excellent electrochemical performance and high tap density. Full article

The practical application of rechargeable aqueous zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs) has been severely hindered by detrimental dendrite growth, uncontrollable hydrogen evolution, and unfavorable side reactions occurring at the Zn metal anode. Here, we applied a Prussian blue analogue (PBA) material K₂Zn₃(Fe(CN)₆)₂ as an artificial solid electrolyte interphase (SEI), by which the plentiful -C≡N- ligands at the surface and the large channels in the open framework structure can operate as a highly zincophilic moderator and ion sieve, inducing fast and uniform nucleation and deposition of Zn. Additionally, the dense interface effectively prevents water molecules from approaching the Zn surface, thereby inhibiting the hydrogen-evolution-resultant side reactions and corrosion. The highly reversible Zn plating/stripping is evidenced by an elevated Coulombic efficiency of 99.87% over 600 cycles in a Zn/Cu cell and a prolonged lifetime of 860 h at 5 mA cm⁻², 2 mAh cm⁻² in a Zn/Zn symmetric cell. Furthermore, the PBA-coated Zn anode ensures the excellent rate and cycling performance of an α-MnO₂/Zn full cell. This work provides a simple and effective solution for the improvement of the Zn anode, advancing the commercialization of aqueous ZIBs. Full article

Achieving commercially acceptable Zn-MnO₂ rechargeable batteries depends on the reversibility of active zinc and manganese materials, and avoiding side reactions during the second electron reaction of MnO₂. Typically, liquid electrolytes such as potassium hydroxide (KOH) are used for Zn-MnO₂ rechargeable batteries. However, it is known that using liquid electrolytes causes the formation of electrochemically inactive materials, such as precipitation Mn₃O₄ or ZnMn₂O₄ resulting from the uncontrollable reaction of Mn³⁺ dissolved species with zincate ions. In this paper, hydrogel electrolytes are tested for MnO₂ electrodes undergoing two-electron cycling. Improved cell safety is achieved because the hydrogel electrolyte is non-spillable, according to standards from the US Department of Transportation (DOT). The cycling of “half cells” with advanced-formulation MnO₂ cathodes paired with commercial NiOOH electrodes is tested with hydrogel and a normal electrolyte, to detect changes to the zincate crossover and reaction from anode to cathode. These half cells achieved ≥700 cycles with 99% coulombic efficiency and 63% energy efficiency at C/3 rates based on the second electron capacity of MnO₂. Other cycling tests with “full cells” of Zn anodes with the same MnO₂ cathodes achieved ~300 cycles until reaching 50% capacity fade, a comparable performance to cells using liquid electrolyte. Electrodes dissected after cycling showed that the liquid electrolyte allowed Cu ions to migrate more than the hydrogel electrolyte. However, measurements of the Cu diffusion coefficient showed no difference between liquid and gel electrolytes; thus, it was hypothesized that the gel electrolytes reduced the occurrence of Cu short circuits by either (a) reducing electrode physical contact to the separator or (b) reducing electro-convective electrolyte transport that may be as important as diffusive transport. Full article

The increasing demand for electricity and the electrification of various sectors require more efficient and sustainable energy storage solutions. This paper focuses on the novel rechargeable nickel–zinc battery (RNZB) technology, which has the potential to replace the conventional nickel–cadmium battery (NiCd), in terms of safety, performance, environmental impact, and cost. The paper aims to provide a comprehensive and systematic analysis of RNZBs by modeling their lifecycle cost (LCC) from cradle to grave. This paper also applies this LCC model to estimate costs along the RNZB’s lifecycle in both cases: per kilogram of battery mass and per kilowatt hour of energy released. This model is shown to be reliable by comparing its results with costs provided by recognized software used for LCC analysis. A comparison of LCCs for three widely used battery technologies: lead–acid, Li-ion LFP, and NMC batteries, which can be market competitors of NiZn, is also provided. The study concludes that the NiZn battery was found to be the cheapest throughout its entire lifecycle, with NiZn Formulation 1 being the cheapest option. The cost per unit of energy released was also found to be the lowest for NiZn batteries. The current research pain points are the availability of data for nickel–zinc batteries, which are in the research and development phase, while other battery types are already widely used in energy storage. This paper recommends taking into account the location factor of infrastructures, cost of machinery, storage, number of suppliers of raw materials, amount of materials transported in each shipment, and the value of materials recovered after the battery recycling process to further reduce costs throughout the battery’s lifecycle. This LCC model can be also used for other energy storage technologies and serve as objective functions for optimization in further developments. Full article

With the rapid growth of the world population and the further industrialization of modern society, the demand for energy continues to rise sharply. Hence, the development of alternative, renewable, and clean energy sources is urgently needed to address the impending energy crisis. Rechargeable aqueous zinc-ion batteries are drawing increased attention and are regarded as the most promising candidates for large-scale energy storage systems. However, some challenges exist for both the anode and cathode, severely restricting the practical application of ZIBs. In this review, we focus on the issues related to the anode (such as dendrites growth, hydrogen evolution, and surface passivation). We discuss the causes of these challenges and summarize the strategies (such as surface engineering, electrolyte modification, and 3D structural skeleton and alloying) to overcome them. Finally, we discuss future opportunities and challenges of ZIBs regarding the Zn anode. Full article