Non-solvating additives regulate zinc deposition through anion-gated Stern-layer competition

AI Insight

This study demonstrates that non-solvating additives can control zinc metal deposition in aqueous batteries by competing with water molecules in the Stern layer at the electrode-electrolyte interface. The researchers found that these additives work through an anion-gated mechanism, where specific anions regulate the access of additives to the electrode surface, enabling more uniform and dendrite-free zinc plating. The approach provides a new strategy for improving the reversibility and longevity of aqueous zinc-ion batteries by fundamentally altering the solvation environment at the critical deposition interface.

Why it matters

This finding could significantly advance the development of safe, low-cost aqueous zinc-ion batteries as alternatives to lithium-ion batteries for grid-scale energy storage. By preventing dendrite formation and improving cycling stability through simple electrolyte additives, this approach offers a practical pathway to more reliable and longer-lasting zinc-based energy storage systems.