Tailored CEI Architectures to Boost High-Performance Solid-State Zn-Ion Batteries

Abstract

Solid-state zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs) have emerged as a pivotal candidate for next-generation energy storage systems due to their inherent safety and environmental compatibility. However, critical challenges at the cathode-electrolyte interface (CEI), including sluggish ion transport kinetics, mechanical instability, and parasitic side reactions, persistently hinder their performance breakthroughs. To tackle these limitations, this review presents a categorized overview of CEI modification strategies based on interfacial engineering, which aim to systematically modulate electrode-electrolyte interactions. These strategies include dynamic adaptive regulation via in-situ reconstruction, defect engineering for activating inert sites, heterojunction band engineering to optimize charge transfer pathways, and biomimetic dynamic bonding mechanisms that boost interfacial stability through self-healing capabilities. Additionally, solid electrolyte modifications significantly improve interfacial durability and synergistic strategies further reinforce interfacial chemical and mechanical robustness. This review consolidates recent advancements in these interfacial optimization mechanisms and critically discusses future research directions, including multiscale characterization techniques, intelligent material design paradigms, and scalable manufacturing technologies. These insights provide a theoretical framework and technical roadmap for developing high-stability, intelligent energy storage interfaces, paving the path for the practical deployment of advanced solid-state ZIBs.