Achieving\nUniform Deposition of Zn with Amide Additives\nfor Metal Anodes Stabilization

The\npractical applications of aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs)\nare hindered by detrimental effects such as dendrites formation at\nthe Zn metal anode interface and parasitic side reactions induced\nby H<sub>2</sub>O. Hence, we propose adding amide additives to the\nZn sulfate electrolyte (ZSO) to regulate the composition and properties\nof the electrolytes, thereby stabilizing the Zn anode interface. Different\namide molecules containing formamide (FA), acetamide (AA), or trifluoroacetamide\n(TFA) are discussed. The polar CO group shared by amide molecules\ncan interact with Zn<sup>2+</sup>, forming their solvation shells.\nThe molecules can also facilitate the transport of Zn<sup>2+</sup> and increase the conductivity of the electrolytes. Additionally,\namide molecules can interact with H<sub>2</sub>O through hydrogen\nbonds to limit the erosion of active H<sub>2</sub>O on the Zn anode.\nThe unique –H, −CH<sub>3</sub>, and −CF<sub>3</sub> groups of the molecules result in different polarities and varying\nnumbers of interaction sites with H<sub>2</sub>O and Zn<sup>2+</sup>, leading to some differences in the protective effects of the Zn\nanode. The stability and lifespan of Zn||Zn batteries assembled with\namide electrolytes have significantly improved, especially those with\nTFA. Moreover, the Zn||NH<sub>4</sub>V<sub>4</sub>O<sub>10</sub> full\ncells demonstrate remarkable capacity retention, and the overall performance\nof the batteries has also been enhanced.