(Invited) Architected Zinc Anodes Enable Next-Generation Aqueous Rechargeable Batteries

Abstract

Zinc-based batteries offer the compelling benefits of a high-capacity, abundant anode material and the use of aqueous electrolytes for ease of assembly and safe operation. To solve the standing roadblock to rechargeable zinc-based batteries—shape change and dendrite formation under demanding cycling conditions—we adapt lessons of 3D electrode design from our prior breakthroughs with energy-storing nanoarchitectures. Zinc “sponge” form factors are fabricated by fusing 50–100 mm zinc particles into a porous, monolithic structure. Electrochemical reaction fronts are distributed throughout these 3D-wired zinc architectures, effectively thwarting dendrite formation and homogeneously distributing reaction products, even at high current density [1,2]. Over the development course of the NRL Zn sponge anode, each successive generation has been further optimized with manufacturability as a foremost consideration, such that the current sponge formulation is readily and simply processed at increasing scale to sizes necessary for relevant energy-storage applications. Zinc sponges are evaluated in multiple battery configurations including zinc–air, nickel–zinc, and silver–zinc to validate such performance characteristics as cycle life and specific power. We are also expanding 3D architecture concepts to other metals of relevance for battery applications. [1] J.F. Parker, C.N. Chervin, E.S. Nelson, D.R. Rolison, J.W. Long, “Wiring zinc in three dimensions re-writes battery performance―Dendrite-free cycling.” Energy Environ. Sci. , 7 , 1117–1124 (2014). [2] J.F. Parker, C.N. Chervin, I.R. Pala, M. Machler, M.F. Burz, J.W. Long, and D.R. Rolison, “Rechargeable nickel–3D zinc batteries: An energy-dense, safer alternative to lithium-ion.” Science , 356 , 415–418 (2017).