Progress, challenges and future directions

Lithium-ion batteries have long been the standard for energy storage. However, zinc batteries are emerging as a more sustainable, cost-effective and efficient alternative.^1.2 This article discusses the latest developments, challenges and future development directions for zinc batteries.

Understanding zinc-based batteries

Zinc batteries can be charged using zinc as the anode material. During the discharge, zinc atoms oxidize, releasing zinc ions, which travel through the electrolyte to the cathode, where they are reduced and incorporated into the cathode structure. Electrons released during oxidation produce electricity by flowing through an external circuit. During charging, the reverse process occurs.^1.3

There are several types of zinc batteries, differing in cathode material and operating mechanisms. Typical elements are a separator (a porous membrane that prevents electrical contact while allowing ions to flow) and an electrolyte that acts as an ion transport medium between the anode and cathode. ^3.4

Zinc-ion batteries typically use safer and more environmentally friendly aqueous electrolytes than lithium-ion batteries, which use flammable organic electrolytes.

The latest advances in zinc battery technology

Significant progress has been made in increasing the energy density, efficiency and overall performance of zinc batteries. Innovations focused on optimizing electrode materials, electrolyte composition and battery architecture.

In a recent study, scientists developed a novel three-dimensional nanoporous Zn–Cu alloy electrode to enhance the performance of zinc batteries. This Zn-Cu alloy 3D NP anode, created using an electrochemically assisted annealing method, addresses issues such as shape change, dendrite growth, and passivation that have traditionally limited the rechargeability of zinc anodes.⁵

This advanced architecture promotes efficient electron and ion transport, leading to uniform Zn deposition/stripping and improved charge storage. The new anode is characterized by exceptional cyclic stability and high surface capacity, comparable to commercially available lithium-ion batteries, offering significant potential for a new generation of water-zinc-ion batteries.⁵

Current challenges facing zinc batteries

Zinc batteries face several challenges, including limited life cycle, performance and scalability.

For example, aqueous electrolytes can cause the formation of dendrites – needle-like zinc structures that build up on the anode while cycling – damaging the battery and reducing its performance and lifespan. These issues impact the commercial viability and scalability of zinc batteries.^6.7

Scientists are tackling these challenges with innovative methods. For example, a recent study introduced zinc anode mesh (GZn) using a stress pressing method with a copper mesh frame.

This structure increases the conductivity of the electrode and limits hydrogen evolution while at location-the created Cu-Zn nanoalloy stabilizes the interface of Zn deposition. ⁷ The GZn anode is characterized by lower overpotential and better cyclic stability than traditional Zn anodes, which indicates its potential for use in Zn-ion capacitors and batteries.⁷

Potential applications and market impact

Zinc-based batteries have a variety of applications in various industrial sectors. In the automotive sector, they provide a cost-effective alternative to lithium-ion batteries, providing comparable energy density, faster charging and improved safety features. They are also valuable in grid-scale energy storage, where their low cost and high energy efficiency help stabilize renewable energy sources and alleviate grid congestion.^1,4,8

Zinc batteries, especially zinc-hybrid batteries, are gaining popularity for energy storage in the renewable energy sector. For example, zinc-bromine batteries are widely used in power quality control, renewable energy coupling, and electric vehicles. The capacity of these batteries has increased from kilowatts to megawatts.

Early grid-scale applications began in Japan with a 1 MW system from Kyushu Electric Power Company, with companies such as Exxon, Johnson Control and ZBB Technologies advancing the development of zinc-bromine batteries. Other zinc-based batteries, such as zinc-nickel, zinc-cerium and zinc-iron, are also being developed for energy storage and integration of renewable energy sources on a smaller scale.⁸

Future directions and research needs

Continuous research and development is required to fully realize the potential of zinc batteries as a cost-effective alternative to lithium-ion batteries. Scientists should focus on developing novel cathode materials with high capacity, stable cycling performance and fast kinetics, as well as electrolytes that are more resistant to zinc metal, ensuring longer battery life.

In addition to conventional cell designs, innovative architectures such as hybrid batteries and redox flow batteries using zinc chemistry should be explored. Advanced computational tools can optimize battery design, contributing to the development of high-performance zinc batteries.

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References and further reading

1. Tang, L., et al. (2024). Zinc-based batteries for sustainable energy storage: strategies and mechanisms. Reviews of the Chemical Society. doi.org/10.1039/D3CS00295K
2. Al-Amin, M., Islam, S., Shibly, S.U.A., Iffat, S. (2022). Comparative review of aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIB) and flexible zinc-ion batteries (FZIB). Nanomaterials. doi.org/10.3390/nano12223997
3. Wang, N., Wan, H., Duan, J., Wang, X., Tao, L., Zhang, J., Wang, H. (2021). Overview of zinc batteries from alkaline to acid. Materials Today Progress. doi.org/10.1016/j.mtadv.2021.100149
4. Pross-Brakhage, J., Fitz, O., Bischoff, C., Biro, D., Birke, K.P. (2023). Post-lithium batteries with zinc for energy transformation. Batteries. doi.org/10.3390/batteries9070367
5. Liu, B., Wang, S., Wang, Z., Lei, H., Chen, Z., Mai, W. (2020). A novel nanoporous 3D Zn-Cu alloy as a long-life anode in high-voltage zinc-ion batteries with a double electrolyte. Small. doi.org/10.1002/smll.202001323
6. Lu, W., Zhang, C., Zhang, H., Li, X. (2021). Anode for zinc batteries: challenges, strategies and prospects. ACS energy lists. doi.org/10.1021/acsenergylett.1c00939
7. Gong, Z., et al. (2023). Zinc-metal anodes stabilized with a conductive frame for high-performance Zn-Ion batteries and capacitors. Progress in energy materials. doi.org/10.34133/energymatadv.0035
8. Sick., et al. (2018). Overview of zinc-based hybrid flow batteries: from basics to applications. Materials today energy. doi.org/10.1016/j.mtener.2017.12.012

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