A major extension of the lifespan of zinc batteries could boost energy storage
A major leap forward in energy storage technology could soon change the way large amounts of electricity are stored for sustainable energy solutions. Scientists from the Technical University of Munich (TUM) have unveiled a new method that could dramatically extend the life of aqueous zinc-ion batteries. Addressing key sustainability challenges, the team suggests these batteries could last hundreds of thousands of cycles – far longer than the typical lifespan of a few thousand cycles for current models.
Central to this advancement is a specialized protective layer applied to the zinc anodes of these batteries. The layer effectively combats common problems such as the formation of zinc dendrites – small needle-like structures that disrupt performance – and reduces unwanted side reactions that previously led to hydrogen release and corrosion.
Prof. Roland A. Fischer, who leads the research team at the TUM School of Natural Sciences, attributes the success to the use of a unique material: a porous organic polymer called TpBD-2F. This polymer creates a stable, ultra-thin and precisely ordered film on the zinc anode, allowing zinc ions to move freely through tiny channels while preventing water from directly interacting with the anode surface.
Zinc batteries offer a promising alternative to lithium-ion
Principal investigator and Ph.D. candidate Da Lei highlighted the implications of the innovation, stating: “Zinc-ion batteries with this new protective layer could replace lithium-ion batteries in large-scale energy storage applications, such as in combination with solar or wind power plants. They last longer. , are safer, and zinc is both cheaper and more readily available than lithium.” While lithium remains the primary choice for mobile applications such as electric vehicles, its higher cost and environmental footprint are limiting factors for large-scale, stationary storage needs.
Prof. Fischer expressed optimism about the discovery, noting: “This is a truly spectacular research result. We have shown that the chemical approach developed by Da Lei not only works, but is also verifiable. As fundamental researchers, we are particularly interested in new scientific insights.” principles – and here we have discovered one. We have already developed a first prototype in the form of a button cell. I see no reason why our findings couldn’t be translated to larger applications. Now it is up to the engineers to take on this task and devise and develop appropriate production processes.”
Research report:Ion Transport Kinetics and Interfacial Stability Improvement of Zinc Anodes Based on Fluorinated Covalent Organic Framework Thin Films
