Dual zinco-phobic/-philic ferroelectric nanorods coated mesh for stable Zn anode

• FE BTO NRs were synthesized via hydrothermal treatment followed by ion exchange reactions . • FE BTO NRs expose P 4/ mmm (100) and (211) facets enriched with V O . • BTO NRs mesh coating exhibits dual zinco-phobicity/-philicity and reduced Zn 2+ transport barrier. • 3D mesh architecture generates uniform electric field, alongside longitudinal concentration gradient and uniform transverse distribution. • BTO NRs@Zn anode delivers remarkable stable runtime of 3050 h at 1 mA cm -2 and 1 mAh cm -2 , coupled with exceptional reversibility after 2000 cycles. Aqueous Zn-ion batteries are emerging as a promising option for energy storage systems due to their safety and environmental benefits. However, their stability and reversibility are often hindered by dendrite growth and interfacial side reactions. In this study, we introduce an innovative strategy to address these issues by engineering an artificial interfacial layer (AIL) on Zn anode surface. This AIL is composed of a dual zinco-phobic/-philic ferroelectric nanorods (FE NRs) mesh, which contrasts with the traditional BaTiO 3 nanoparticles. The BTO NRs, particularly those with exposed P 4/ mmm (100) and (211) facets enriched with oxygen vacancy, facilitate a partial phase transition from the FE tetragonal P 4 mm phase to the paraelectric tetragonal P 4/ mmm phase, thereby creating dual zinco-phobic/-philic sites. Additionally, the integration of microchannels within the FE BTO NRs mesh can efficiently modulate the electric field distribution and Zn 2+ concentration, leading to a more uniform Zn deposition, as conformed by electrochemical simulations. The Zn anode coated with the FE BTO NRs mesh exhibits impressive performance, achieving an ultralong cycle life of 3050 h at 1 mA cm −2 and 1mAh cm −2 . It sustains a Coulombic efficiency exceeding 99.8 % over 2000 cycles, highlighting its exceptional reversibility. These findings underscore the potential of the dual zinco-phobic/-philic FE NRs mesh in overcoming the challenges faced in aqueous metal-ion batteries, showcasing its versatility and the significant performance enhancements it can offer.