Parallel adsorption of parts-per-million level additives for highly efficient aqueous zinc-ion battery
摘要
The unstable zinc (Zn) interface derived from undesired dendrite growth and parasitic reactions hinders the practical application of rechargeable zinc-ion batteries. Herein, we introduce 1-(2-pyridylazo)-2-naphthol (PAN) as a parts-per-million (ppm) level electrolyte additive to enhance the interfacial stability of Zn anode. Theoretical and experimental results demonstrate that PAN can parallel adsorb on the Zn surface and form strong π-π interactions between PAN molecules, helping to repel water molecules highly efficiently. Moreover, PAN featuring OH, pyridine N and azo N groups can chelate with Zn2+ and optimize the diffusion behavior of Zn2+, inducing even Zn deposition and suppressing dendrite growth. Remarkably, 10 ppm (0.04 mM) PAN additive contributes to a long lifespan of 1500 h in a symmetrical cell at 2 mA cm−2 and 1 mAh cm−2. Also, the cycle stability of Zn∥NH4V4O10 and Zn∥MnO2 full cells showcases obvious enhancement. The Zn∥NH4V4O10 pouch cell exhibits impressive capacity retention of 71.1% after 250 cycles at a rate of 0.8 A g−1. This work provides a promising pathway for selecting high-efficient additives applied in aqueous metal-based batteries.