Stable Zinc Metal Anodes with Textured Crystal Faces and Functional Zinc Compound Coatings

The uneven electrodeposition and inferior corrosion resistance are the fundamental obstacles to achieve stable Zn metal anodes. The features of the electrode surface/interface are closely correlated with the properties. Herein, the Zn surface with more exposed (002)(Zn) planes is modified through a simple acid-etching approach. The in situ generated zinc compounds form an interface layer with strong adhesion to the Zn electrode, which can enhance the Zn2+ ion kinetics and regulate the deposition/dissolution behaviors. A variety of acids with functional cations are selected, among which the phosphoric acid etches the Zn with a higher extent of texturing and generates a more compact layer. The obtained zinc phosphate@Zn electrode enables stable cycling and fast kinetics in symmetrical and full Zn metal batteries. This study provides a new example of combined surface and interface modification toward high-performance aqueous zinc metal anodes.