Redesigning Zinc-Metal Batteries through Tailored Electrode Coatings and Electrolyte Engineering

Kurzfassung

Aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs) represent a safe, low-cost, and environmentally friendly alternative to lithium-ion systems for grid-scale energy storage, yet their secondary commercialization is hindered by cathode dissolution, zinc dendrite growth, and parasitic hydrogen evolution. This doctoral research addresses these bottlenecks through a comprehensive redesign of the cell's electrode-electrolyte interfaces. By combining high-entropy oxide cathodes to stabilize the host lattice, sputtered zinc-alloy anodes to regulate plating and prevent short circuits, and a specialized polymer-gel electrolyte to widen the stability window, this work aims to significantly improve the longevity and efficiency of non-flammable, highly sustainable AZIB technology.