A groundbreaking research study published in Energy Storage Materials has unveiled a new strategy for stabilizing zinc-ion batteries, marking a major advancement in the field of energy storage technology. Led by Prof. HU Linhua from the Hefei Institutes of Physical Science of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the research team has introduced a general principle based on evaluating the highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) energy level of molecules to select non-sacrificial anionic surfactant electrolyte additives for stabilizing Zn anodes.
Aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs) have garnered significant interest for their safety, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. However, the growth of Zn dendrites and side reactions have posed challenges to the widespread commercialization of AZIBs. By choosing suitable anionic surfactant additives based on their HOMO energy levels, the researchers were able to inhibit Zn dendrite growth and side reactions, resulting in highly stable and reversible metal anodes.
Among the additives tested, sodium dodecyl benzene sulfonate (SDBS) stood out for its high HOMO energy level, demonstrating strong coordination and adsorption effects that enhanced the stability and reversibility of the Zn anode. Dr. LI Zhaoqian emphasized that SDBS effectively prevented harmful zinc dendrites from growing, thereby improving the battery’s rechargeability and longevity.
The research findings paved the way for the development of high-performance AZIBs, with batteries showing exceptional long-term stability and capacity retention after numerous cycles. The study’s innovative approach in screening optimal electrolyte additives is poised to have a significant impact on the advancement of metal battery technology.
