Constructing coordination compound interphases for superior zinc-ion battery performance

Abstract

This study introduces a novel approach to enhancing the performance of aqueous zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs) by modifying zinc anodes with itaconic acid (IA), a natural dicarboxylic acid. The IA facilitates the formation of a coordination compound interphase on the zinc surface, which serves as a protective layer. This coordination compound interphase modification significantly improves electrochemical stability, reduces polarization, and effectively suppresses zinc dendrite formation. The IA interphase exhibits low overpotential and an extended cycle life, with symmetric cells operating stably for over 4600 hours at a high current density of 10 mA cm⁻². When paired with a MnO₂ cathode, the IA@Zn‖MnO₂ full battery demonstrates remarkable cycling stability and rate capability, retaining a high specific capacity of 150.1 mA h g⁻¹ even after 1000 cycles at 1 A g⁻¹. Comparative studies further reveal that the IA@Zn anode significantly outperforms bare zinc anodes in both cycling life and voltage stability. These findings underscore the potential of the IA-induced interphase as a simple and highly effective strategy for developing high-performance ZIBs.