Construction of Double-Network Hydrogel Electrolytes for Long-Cycle Dendrite-Free Zinc Anodes

Abstract

Water-based rechargeable zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs) are promising for large-scale energy storage due to their ecoefficiency, high capacity, safety, and low cost. However, challenges, such as water decomposition reactions and liquid leakage, hinder their development. We address these issues with a dual-network PAM-BC hydrogel electrolyte, designed by using a socking-free method. This electrolyte enhances the electrochemical performance of zinc anodes, inhibits corrosion and hydrogen evolution reactions, and mitigates dendrite growth. The Zn//PAM-BC//Zn battery cycles stably for 4000 h at 0.5 mA cm–2 and 650 h at a high depth of discharge (DOD = 42.7%). The pouch battery with PAM-BC remains stable after high pressure, bending, or shear, showing promise for wearable electronic devices. This work introduces an approach to designing multifunctional hydrogel electrolytes for high-performance flexible batteries.