Advanced carbon materials for efficient zinc ion storage: Structures, mechanisms and prospects

Abstract

Zinc ion hybrid capacitors (ZIHCs), combining the high energy density of zinc ion batteries with the high-power output of supercapacitors, are poised to become significant players in the field of electrochemical energy storage. Carbon-based materials have emerged as competitive candidates for ZIHC cathodes owing to their cost-efficiency, exceptional electronic conductivity, chemical stability, modifiable surface states, and adjustable pore structures. Recent research has been intensely focused on enhancing the energy density and cycling stability of ZIHCs through rational modification and structural optimization of carbon-based materials. This review delves into the structural design, electrochemical performance and charge storage mechanism of carbon-based cathode materials for ZIHCs via spanning a diverse range of dimensions, and the internal relations among them are explained. The challenges and opportunities facing ZIHCs are highlighted, aiming to steer the innovative development of carbon-based cathode materials and the creation of novel ZIHC technologies.