Self-Absorbed Cage-like <i>o</i> -Carborane Atomic Cluster Derived Artificial Interphase for Aqueous Zinc-Ion Batteries

The practical deployment of rechargeable aqueous zinc-ion batteries is greatly hindered by severe Zn dendrite growth and the hydrogen evolution reaction on Zn metal anodes. Herein, we report the spontaneous construction of an adsorption-induced o-carborane artificial interphase to stabilize Zn anodes. The cage-structured o-carborane clusters possess robust structural stability and chemical inertness, endowing Zn anodes with strong durability to suppress Zn dendrite and hydrogen evolution. The constructed o-carborane protective layer can redistribute Zn2+ flux, avoiding nonuniform Zn deposition and achieving highly reversible Zn plating/stripping processes. The o-carborane-derived SEI can prevent Zn metal from being corroded by the electrolyte and accelerate Zn2+ transfer. Consequently, Zn||Zn symmetric batteries and Zn||Cu half-batteries based on o-carborane-modified Zn electrodes demonstrate long cycling lifespans at elevated current densities. The assembled Zn||V2O5 batteries also achieve lower voltage polarization, enhanced rate capability, and prolonged cycling stability. This work highlights the potential of adsorption-driven artificial interphases constructed from cage-like clusters in stabilizing transition metal anodes, providing a promising route to develop advanced aqueous multivalent-ion batteries.