Micro-BaTiO3/graphene synergistically facilitates Zn (002) plane selective growth for dendrite-suppressed aqueous zinc-ion batteries

Abstract

Aqueous zinc-ion batteries are regarded as one of the most promising candidates for large-scale energy storage devices. However, zinc anodes suffer from uncontrollable dendrite growth and side reactions such as hydrogen evolution at the electrolyte interface, which severely compromise battery lifespan. This study employs pulse electrodeposition to fabricate a composite modified zinc anode (MBTG) incorporating micron-sized barium titanate (MBT) and graphene (Gr). Results indicate that when MBT is added at 0.8 g L⁻¹ and Gr at 0.04 g L⁻¹, the assembled symmetric cell exhibits lower voltage hysteresis and longer cycling performance compared to the bare zinc cell, achieving stable cycling for over 350 hours at both 5 mA cm⁻² and 2 mA cm⁻². Furthermore, after 650 constant-current cycles at a current density of 0.5 A g⁻¹, the assembled cell exhibited a capacity retention rate of 73%, significantly outperforming the bare zinc-assembled cell. Electrochemical tests revealed that the synergistic effect of MBT and Gr not only optimized the growth of the Zn(002) crystal plane but also enhanced zinc ion transport kinetics and ionic conductivity, facilitating uniform zinc deposition. Consequently, the composite anode exhibited lower interfacial resistance and improved corrosion resistance. This work provides a promising pathway for preparing long-cycle zinc anodes and high-performance AZIBS.