Researchers in South Korea are making strides in battery technology. They developed a new coating for zinc-ion batteries that aims to fix issues with stability and performance.
Zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs) are seen as safer and less expensive than traditional lithium-ion batteries. However, they face challenges. Zinc anodes can form sharp growths called dendrites during charging and discharging, which can disrupt battery life. Earlier protective coatings failed because they were either too thick or hard to produce.
Now, a team from Chungnam National University, led by Associate Professor Woo-Jin Song, has created an innovative ultra-thin coating made from zinc-bonded polyacrylic acid (ZHP). This coating effectively prevents dendrite growth and stabilizes the battery’s structure. According to Dr. Song, “Our method is simpler and can be produced on a larger scale,” addressing significant manufacturing limitations.
The ZHP coating works by preventing contact between the zinc anode and the electrolyte, reducing corrosion. Its design also enhances the transfer of ions, leading to better battery performance. In tests, ZHP-coated anodes retained 95% of their capacity after 500 cycles, indicating impressive longevity.
This advancement is timely. According to a recent report from the International Energy Agency, the global demand for batteries is expected to soar, fueled by the rise of electric vehicles and renewable energy solutions. Innovations like ZHP-based batteries could revolutionize energy storage solutions in industries where safety is crucial, such as grid energy systems and wearable technology.
Overall, the development of these advanced zinc-ion batteries offers not just a competitor to lithium-ion options, but a potentially safer, more environmentally friendly alternative. This breakthrough might open up new doors in battery technology, making electric transportation and portable electronics more sustainable and accessible.
For more information on this topic, check the original research published in the Chemical Engineering Journal.
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Chungnam National University, polyacrylic acid, zinc anodes, South Korea, ZHP, zinc anode, protective coating, lithium-ion batteries, Woo-Jin Song, protective layer
