AI Insight
This study demonstrates that molecular additives can selectively adsorb onto specific crystal facets of zinc metal anodes, modulating the local work function to favor the growth of zinc crystals in a preferred orientation during electrodeposition. The researchers show that by controlling which crystallographic planes are exposed during zinc plating, they can significantly improve the reversibility and stability of zinc metal anodes in aqueous zinc-ion batteries. The facet-selective adsorption strategy promotes the formation of densely packed zinc (002) planes parallel to the substrate, reducing dendrite formation and side reactions.
Why it matters
This approach addresses key challenges in aqueous zinc-ion batteries, including dendrite growth, poor cycling stability, and hydrogen evolution reactions that have limited their practical deployment. The facet-engineering strategy could enable safer, more durable energy storage systems for grid-scale applications and could be extended to other metal anode systems.
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