Issue 12, 2024

An integrated Janus hydrogel with different hydrophilicities and gradient pore structures for high-performance zinc-ion batteries

Abstract

In zinc-ion batteries, the role of water in electrolytes is pivotal for enhancing the kinetics and capacity of the cathode; however, an excess of water leads to reduced stability of the cathode and corrosion of the Zn anode. Devising an electrolyte that meets the different water content requirements for both the cathode and anode holds promise for achieving superior performance but remains a persistent challenge. Herein, we have innovatively designed an integrated Janus hydrogel with different hydrophilicities on two surfaces and gradient pore structures within a bulk material. In the cross-sectional view, a gradient in pore size, ranging from large to small, is established in conjunction with a reduction in hydrophilicity. By employing the Janus hydrogel electrolyte, zinc-ion batteries demonstrate both high capacity and excellent cycling stability by facilitating sufficient H+ insertion in the cathode without the formation of by-products, while simultaneously mitigating water-induced corrosion in the zinc anode. Specifically, the coin-type Zn‖(NH4)2V10O25·8H2O attains an extraordinary capacity of up to 307 mA h g−1 at 5 A g−1, with an impressive capacity retention of 88% after 1000 cycles. Moreover, the pouch cell with an area of 22.5 cm2 delivered a substantial capacity of 48 mA h and an excellent capacity retention of 85% after 150 cycles at 200 mA. Importantly, the pouch cell works reliably even when subjected to cutting, heavy loading or bending.

Graphical abstract: An integrated Janus hydrogel with different hydrophilicities and gradient pore structures for high-performance zinc-ion batteries

Supplementary files

Article information

Article type
Paper
Submitted
05 Mar 2024
Accepted
08 May 2024
First published
09 May 2024

Energy Environ. Sci., 2024,17, 4126-4136

An integrated Janus hydrogel with different hydrophilicities and gradient pore structures for high-performance zinc-ion batteries

K. Zhu, X. Niu, W. Xie, H. Yang, W. Jiang, M. Ma and W. Yang, Energy Environ. Sci., 2024, 17, 4126 DOI: 10.1039/D4EE01018C

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