Multifunctional hybrid interface enables controllable zinc deposition for aqueous Zn-ion batteries

Aqueous Zn-ion batteries have gradually become a suitable choice for large-scale energy storage systems owing to their safety and lower cost. However, Zn metal anodes typically suffer from uneven electrodeposition and zinc dendrite formation, which restricts Zn-ion batteries from being used in further applications. To mitigate this problem, a simple and quick chemical surface modification is employed to construct a multifunctional hybrid interface consisting of ZnF₂ and Sn on the surface of the Zn metal anode. ZnF₂ show a low diffusion energy barrier for Zn²⁺, effectively shield the direct corrosive reaction from the aqueous electrolyte, and simultaneously increase the hydrogen evolution potential of the Zn electrode. Furthermore, the Sn particles provide a large number of nucleation sites and charge centers, avoiding the direct growth of dendrites. The interface-modified Zn anode achieve stable cycles of 700 h and 500 h at high current densities of 5 and 10 mA/cm², respectively, while the assembled Zn@ZnF₂–Sn||V₂O₅ full battery achieve over 400 stable cycles at 1 A/g. This work uncover the internal mechanism of inhibiting Zn dendrites by the multifunctional interface, providing a means for stabilizing the Zn anode under practical conditions.