Advanced Aqueous Zinc-Ion Battery Developed with Enhanced Cycle Lifespan

ByAlan Caldwell

AUG 16, 2023

A research team at the Hefei Institutes of Physical Science (HFIPS), led by Prof. Zhao Bangchuan, has made significant progress in the development of aqueous zinc-ion batteries. By utilizing a weak magnetic field and a new VS2 material, they have overcome challenges related to zinc dendrite growth and limitations of cathode materials.

Aqueous zinc-ion batteries are a cost-effective and safe alternative to lithium-ion batteries due to their high theoretical capacity. However, the electrochemical performance of cathode materials and the growth of zinc dendrites on the anode have been limiting factors in terms of energy density and cycle life.

To address these challenges, the research team focused on designing high-energy-density cathodes and suppressing zinc dendrite growth. They employed a hydrothermal method combined with in-situ electrochemical defect engineering to create a VS2 material with rich defects. These defects effectively reduced the electrostatic interaction between zinc ions and VS2, enabling efficient transport of Zn2+ in both the ab plane and c-axis. This resulted in excellent rate capability.

While cycling stability remained an issue due to dendrite growth, the team discovered that introducing an external weak magnetic field suppressed this growth and significantly improved the battery’s lifespan. The high-performance Zn-VS2 battery demonstrated an ultralong cycle lifespan, high energy density, and power density when operated under a weak magnetic field.

This breakthrough in aqueous zinc-ion battery technology holds great promise for the future of energy storage. It offers a low-cost and safe alternative to lithium-ion batteries while providing enhanced cycle lifespan and improved energy density. Further research and development in this field could lead to significant advancements in energy storage technology.

Advanced Aqueous Zinc-Ion Battery Developed with Enhanced Cycle Lifespan (energyportal.eu)

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