Advanced design strategy in the anode-electrolyte interface for highly reversible aqueous Zn ion batteries

Aqueous zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs) are being considered as a promising option for the forthcoming generation of energy storage systems, owing to their intrinsic safety, cost-effectiveness, and environmental compatibility in the post-lithium era. However, dendrite formation and side reactions at the anode pose inevitable constraints on the practical utilization of ZIBs. Given the intimate connection of these issues with the anode-electrolyte interface (AEI), rational surface modification is advisable. Directly tailoring the interphase can effectively address the turbulent chemistry at the AEI. This review provides a timely and comprehensive overview of two typical surface modification strategies: ex-situ and in-situ surface modification. The text elaborates on the roles of surface modification in enhancing battery performance from the above two directions. Within this discourse, four critical criteria for an ideal solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) are delineated, which provide guidelines for the future design of surface engineering design. Nevertheless, as a standalone strategy, surface modification provides limited protection for Zn anodes. Therefore, this review aims to offer crucial insights for further exploration into high-performance ZIBs, considering synergistic protection strategies as the most potential option for safeguarding the Zn anode.