Gradient Structured Separator Enables Stable Aqueous Zinc Metal Batteries.

Zhao, Zehua; Zhang, Yan; Zhang, Huandi; Shi, Xiaowei; Zhao, Haitao; Liu, Junpeng; Liu, Jiamei; Li, Lei · Nano Lett · 2025

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

Developing a functional separator is an important strategy to improve the electrochemical performance of the Zn anode by suppressing the Zn dendrite growth and parasitic side reactions, thus advancing the aqueous zinc-ion batteries. Herein, we experimentally realize functional separator with gradient-structure based on CeF<sub>3</sub> nanoparticles functionalized glass fibers. The experimental and theoretical results confirmed that the functional separator can tailor the Zn<sup>2+</sup> flux and restrain SO<sub>4</sub><sup>2-</sup> transport, promoting dense Zn deposition. The strong interaction between CeF<sub>3</sub> nanoparticles and H<sub>2</sub>O separates Zn<sup>2+</sup> and H<sub>2</sub>O at the electrolyte/Zn anode interface, suppressing side reactions. Consequently, the Zn||Zn with this separator achieves excellent cycling stability of 2500 h at 1 mA cm<sup>-2</sup> and 1 mAh cm<sup>-2</sup> and 1000 h at 5 mA cm<sup>-2</sup> and 5 mAh cm<sup>-2</sup>. This design of a functionalized separator provides a distinctive solution for the development of aqueous zinc-ion batteries.