Crystallographic engineering of Zn anodes for aqueous batteries

Abstract

With their intrinsic safety and environmental benignity, aqueous Zn-ion batteries (ZIBs) have been considered the most appropriate candidates for replacing alkali metal systems. However, polycrystalline Zn anodes in aqueous environments still pose enormous issues, such as dendrite growth and side reactions. Although many efforts have been made to address these obstacles through interphase modification and electrolyte design, researchers have not been able to improve the inherent thermodynamic stability and ion deposition behavior of the Zn anode. It is imperative to understand and explore advanced anode construction methods from the perspective of crystallinity. This review delves into the feasibility of precisely regulating the crystallographic features of metallic zinc, examines the challenges and merits of reported strategies for fabricating textured zinc, and offers constructive suggestions for the large-scale production and commercial application of aqueous ZIBs.