Advancements in Copper Sulfide‐Based Materials for Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Batteries: Current Developments, Challenges, and Future Prospects

Aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (AZIBs) are a prime candidate for replacing lithium for battery energy storage systems, offering improved safety and cost‐effectiveness. However, various obstacles remain that limit the practical utilization of AZIBs, including insufficient storage and energy densities alongside long‐term cycling stability issues. Copper sulfides and their composites are positioned as highly attractive active materials for utilization in AZIBs, offering both high capacity and low cost. This review focuses on recent applications of copper sulfide‐based materials to AZIB technologies, emphasizing the strategies applied to improve battery performance and cycling stability. First, the energy storage mechanism of copper sulfides in AZIBs is discussed, followed by applications of copper sulfides as active materials in AZIBs. Next, the current limitations of zinc–sulfur batteries are discussed. Subsequently, applications of copper sulfides in hybrid‐ion batteries are introduced to overcome these limitations. Finally, recommendations for future advancements are provided, emphasizing the utilization of minable copper sulfides, and recommendations for trialing bimetallic sulfides in AZIBs.