Progress on Synergistic Nanoengineering Regulation of Cathode and Anode Interfaces in High-Performance Aqueous Zinc-Iodine Batteries

Abstract

Aqueous zinc-iodine (Zn-I2) batteries are considered promising candidates for large-scale energy storage, owing to the abundant resources of zinc anodes, high theoretical capacity, excellent safety, as well as the fast reaction kinetics and low cost of iodine (I2) cathodes. However, their application is still limited by coupled failure at the cathode and anode interfaces. On the cathode side, polyiodides easily cause shuttle effects, self-discharge, and active I2 loss, while the anode faces core issues such as dendrite formation, hydrogen evolution, corrosion and deposition of by-products. Meanwhile, the migration of polyiodides and OH -/pH disturbances induced by anode side reactions amplify each other, further accelerating battery degradation. Electrolyte additives, due to their structurally designable nature, low dosage, and good compatibility, can synergistically regulate both interfaces of the cathode and anode, making them an effective strategy to mitigate coupled failures. This review systematically summarized the research progress of additives with different molecular configurations in aqueous Zn-I2 batteries, focusing on their structural characteristics, dual-interface mechanisms, and performance. The review also discusses challenges in mechanistic evidence, evaluation standards, adaptability to complex working conditions, and molecular design, and envisions the development direction of additives for Zn-I2 batteries with high loading, long lifespan, and multi-electron reactions.