Zinc has long been used as a negative electrode in alkaline cells, most notably in primary Zn–MnO<sub>2</sub> and Zn–air batteries. The rechargeability of Zn batteries has been historically limited by the propensity for electrode restructuring (e.g., dendrite formation) upon charge–discharge cycling of conventional Zn powder-composite anodes. We recently demonstrated that when Zn is expressed as a 3D, monolithic “sponge,” dendrite formation is suppressed, even when cycling to/from deep levels of discharge. The resulting enhanced cycle life is also accompanied by greater Zn utilization (high capacity) and high-power capability. These advancements in electrochemical performance open new opportunities to revisit the entire family of alkaline Zn batteries, including Ni–Zn and Ag–Zn, but in extensively rechargeable forms. In this talk, we will discuss our latest findings with Zn sponge electrodes, including thorough structural characterization by microscopy and tomography, and electrochemical evaluation in multiple cell configurations. In conjunction with redesign of the Zn anode, we are also developing multifunctional air-cathodes to pair with the Zn sponge en route to rechargeable Zn–air cells, the most energy dense of the Zn family of batteries.<br/>

Next-generation, rechargeable zinc batteries through 3D electrode redesign

256th National Meeting (2018)

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