Artificial Protrusion Architectures Enabling Horizontal-Diffusion Nucleation for Stable Zinc-Based Batteries

Rechargeable batteries with metal anodes promise superior energy storage; however, dendrite formation poses risks to safety and stability. Conventional methods to inhibit dendrite growth in zinc-based batteries (ZBs) are partially effective and may compromise their performance. Herein, a unique artificial protrusion strategy (APS) is proposed involving the mechanical incorporation of Zn powder particles on the surface of zincophilic metals. This method guides Zn²⁺ ions to preferentially obtain electrons on the Zn powders and allows nucleation and growth on the more energetically favorable substrate surface, demonstrating a horizontal-diffusion mechanism of Zn nucleation on the anode surface and steering the subsequent nuclei growth to undergo uniform Zn deposition. The resulting dendrite-free Zn anode extends the Zn symmetrical cell lifespan to nearly 5000 h in the coin cell configuration, notably superior to the reported performance. Additionally, the Zn-I₂ and Zn-MnO₂ pouch cells achieve notable capacities of 480 mAh (3000 h) and 1.8 Ah over multiple cycles, respectively. These results mark a significant advance toward resolving dendrite-related issues through anode structural design, paving the way for future sustainable development.