Toward stable and highly reversible zinc anodes for aqueous batteries via electrolyte engineering

Featuring low cost, high abundance, low electrochemical potential, and large specific capacity, zinc (Zn) metal holds great potential as an anode material for next-generation rechargeable aqueous batteries. However, the poor reversibility resulting from dendrite formation and side reactions poses a major obstacle for its practical application. Electrolyte, which is regarded as the “blood” of batteries, has a direct impact on reaction kinetics, mass transport, and side reactions and thus plays a key role in determining the electrochemical performance of Zn electrodes. Therefore, considerable efforts have been devoted to modulating the electrolytes to improve the performance of Zn electrodes. Although significant progress has been made, achieving stable and highly reversible Zn electrodes remains a critical challenge. This review aims to provide a systematic summary and discussion on electrolyte strategies for high-performance aqueous Zn batteries. The (electro)-chemical behavior and fundamental challenges of Zn electrodes in aqueous electrolytes are first discussed. Electrolyte modulation strategies developed to address these issues are then classified and elaborated according to the underlying mechanisms. Finally, remaining challenges and promising future research directions on aqueous electrolyte engineering are highlighted. This review offers insights into the design of highly efficient electrolytes for new generation of rechargeable Zn batteries.