Synergistic Tip Effect Suppression and Solvation Regulation for High‐Performance Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Batteries

Why It Matters

The additive directly addresses dendrite formation, the chief obstacle to commercial AZIBs, boosting cycle life and efficiency. This could accelerate deployment of low‑cost, safe aqueous batteries for grid‑scale storage.

Key Takeaways

• A26DA additive coordinates Zn2+, reducing water activity.
• Uniform dendrite‑free Zn deposition achieved with 99.3% CE.
• Zn anodes sustain over 2000 h cycling stability.
• π‑conjugated sulfonate design offers scalable electrolyte strategy.
• Improved AZIB safety and lifespan for grid storage.

Pulse Analysis

Aqueous zinc‑ion batteries (AZIBs) have emerged as a promising alternative to lithium‑based systems because they use non‑flammable water‑based electrolytes and inexpensive zinc metal. However, uncontrolled zinc dendrite growth and parasitic side reactions at the electrode‑electrolyte interface have limited their cycle life and practical adoption. Researchers have been exploring electrolyte additives, surface coatings, and current‑collector designs to tame these issues, yet many solutions add complexity or cost.

The new study leverages sodium anthraquinone‑2,6‑disulfonate (A26DA) as a multifunctional additive. Its π‑conjugated sulfonate framework carries two negative charges that bind strongly to Zn²⁺, effectively replacing part of the hydration shell and lowering water activity in the solvation sheath. This solvation engineering promotes homogeneous nucleation, suppresses tip‑effect dendrites, and stabilizes the interfacial chemistry. Laboratory tests show the A26DA‑modified zinc anode delivering 99.3 % Coulombic efficiency and maintaining performance for more than 2,000 hours of continuous cycling, a notable leap over baseline electrolytes.

The implications extend beyond a single laboratory result. By demonstrating a scalable molecular design that simultaneously tunes ion solvation and interfacial deposition, the approach offers a cost‑effective pathway for commercial AZIBs. Compared with polymer coatings or high‑concentration electrolytes, the additive can be introduced in small concentrations without major manufacturing changes. If adopted at scale, this technology could accelerate the rollout of safe, low‑cost energy storage for renewable‑rich grids, electric‑vehicle charging stations, and remote microgrids, positioning aqueous zinc systems as a viable competitor in the rapidly expanding storage market.