Electrolyte additive strategies for highly reversible zinc metal anodes

With the rapid expansion of renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power, there is an increasing need for efficient energy storage systems to ensure energy security. Aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs) are emerging as a viable alternative to lithium-ion batteries, primarily due to their safety features, and have experienced significant progress in recent years. This review offers a detailed examination of AZIBs research, encompassing current advancements and future directions. It emphasizes the background and significance of AZIBs, highlighting their benefits compared to organic electrolyte systems while also addressing the challenges and limitations posed by aqueous electrolytes. We investigate recent research developments, particularly in the design and synthesis of new aqueous electrolytes, as well as significant breakthroughs in advanced electrolyte formulations. Concrete examples from relevant studies demonstrate the ongoing advancements in this area. Furthermore, we analyze future trends, persistent challenges, and potential solutions, providing insights into the changing role of AZIBs in the energy landscape. Overall, this review aims to serve as a valuable reference for researchers, scientists, and engineers focused on the progression of energy storage technologies. This study provides a thorough examination of the various mechanisms through which electrolyte additives help stabilize zinc anodes. It identifies the major challenges faced by aqueous zinc-ion batteries, including zinc dendrite formation, corrosion of zinc metal, the hydrogen evolution reaction, dissolution of transition metals, and the generation of by-products. To tackle these problems, researchers have suggested several electrolyte additives that play diverse roles, such as facilitating the creation of a stable solid electrolyte interface, adjusting the desolvation process, and influencing zinc ion adsorption. Among these approaches, the incorporation of electrolyte additives has garnered significant attention for its effectiveness in improving the stability of the zinc anode.