Greatly Enhancing the Stability and Reversibility of Zn Electrode in the Alkaline Electrolyte by Introducing Lauryl Phosphate Potassium

Alkaline Zn batteries are currently among the most important energy storage technologies due to their low cost, safety, and high energy density. However, the storage lifespan and reversibility of these batteries are severely restricted by the side reactions of the Zn electrode in the alkaline electrolytes, such as hydrogen evolution, self-corrosion, and uneven Zn deposition. This work addresses these issues by introducing lauryl phosphate potassium (PLP) into the alkaline electrolyte and forming a protective layer adsorbed onto the Zn surface. This approach significantly inhibits the hydrogen evolution reaction, thereby reducing the self-corrosion of Zn, as well as effectively preventing shape changes and Zn dendrites, resulting from uneven Zn deposition. Specially, the introduction of 100 ppm of PLP can reduce the hydrogen evolution rate of the Zn electrode by over 90% and extend the cyclic life by about 10 times. The incorporation of 500 ppm of PLP not only enhances the discharge performances of alkaline Zn-MnO₂ battery but also significantly improves their storage lifespan. Furthermore, introducing 100 ppm of PLP into aqueous and solid-state Zn-air batteries can greatly enhance their discharge capacities and cycling stabilities. This research provides a facile approach to enhance the storage performance and reversibility of alkaline Zn batteries.