Guiding uniform Zn electrodeposition through regulating pressure for stable aqueous Zn batteries

Abstract

Pressure has a direct effect on metal deposition behavior, but it has been not clear for Zn metal in rechargeable aqueous Zn batteries due to the lack of suitable battery configuration. Here, we investigate the effect of stacking pressure on Zn electrodeposition and elucidate the role of pressure in stabilizing interphasial chemistry and enhancing Zn²⁺ transport at the electrode–electrolyte interface. Zn nucleation and growth processes can thus be guided by controlling the axial pressure of Zn-based batteries. Dendrite-free and compact Zn deposition is achieved under optimal applied pressure with enhanced cycle life and reaction kinetics. This work provides new insights into enhancing the performance of Zn batteries by regulating mechanical pressure.