Tailoring solvation sheath for rechargeable zinc-ion batteries: Progress and prospect

Abstract

Aqueous zinc-metal based batteries (AZMBs) perfectly combine safety, economy and pro-environment, but their performance is arresting limited by the interfacial instability caused by the large desolvation energy barrier of [Zn(H₂O)₆]²⁺ and the massive release of active water at the electrolyte/electrode interface. In this review, we briefly outline the solvation structure of zinc ions and the necessity of desolvation. Subsequently, the variety of strategies to solve these issues, mainly including reorganizing solvation sheath by changing electrolyte environment and accelerating interface desolvation by constructing artificial interfacial layer, are categorically discussed and systematically summarized. Meanwhile, perspectives and suggestions regarding desolvation theories, interfacial evolution, material design and analysis techniques are proposed to design highly stable zinc anodes.