The Advanced Electrochemical Materials section at the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory has designed and validated a three-dimensional (3D), monolithic Zn electrode architecture that solves the limited rechargeability of Zn. We use a simple emulsion-based protocol to produce moldable, scalable, Zn “sponge” electrodes whose structural characteristics impart: (i) interconnected pathways that maintain long-range electronic conductivity within the electrode volume throughout charge–discharge; (ii) an electrified 3D interface that imparts more uniform current distribution; and (iii) confined internal void volume that controls Zn/Zn2+ precipitation/dissolution dynamics and product redistribution. These Zn “sponge” anodes exhibit unprecedented cyclability at high depths-of-discharge (theoretical DODZn), increased specific capacity relative to conventional powder-bed Zn electrodes, and tens of thousands of cycles with low-DODZn pulse-power profiles, as recently demonstrated in prototype Ni–Zn cells. This breakthrough enables the entire family of aqueous Zn batteries (Ni–Zn, Ag–Zn, MnO2–Zn, Zn-ion, and Zn–air) to be reconfigured in extensively rechargeable forms, with energy and power characteristics that are competitive with Li-ion batteries. Our second-generation emulsion protocol improves the volumetric density of the sponge thereby concomitantly improving the energy density of the cell while adding mechanical ruggedness to the anode. The potential paths forward for the development and transition of this safer energy-storage technology will be discussed.

Architectural re-design of zinc anodes physically thwarts dendrite formation—with zinc batteries now rechargeable, what’s next?

2019 Spring National Meeting

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