Biomimetic and biodegradable separator with high modulus and large ionic conductivity enables dendrite-free zinc-ion batteries
Abstract The advancement of aqueous zinc-based batteries is greatly restricted by zinc dendrites. One potential solution to this challenge lies in the employment of high-modulus separators. However, achieving both high modulus and large ionic conductivity in a single separator remains a formidable t...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Nature Portfolio
2025-01-01
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| Series: | Nature Communications |
| Online Access: | https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-025-56325-8 |
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| Summary: | Abstract The advancement of aqueous zinc-based batteries is greatly restricted by zinc dendrites. One potential solution to this challenge lies in the employment of high-modulus separators. However, achieving both high modulus and large ionic conductivity in a single separator remains a formidable task. Inspired by the wood architecture, this study breaks this trade-off by designing an anisotropic and biodegradable separator. This design significantly improves the modulus along the oriented direction while simultaneously facilitating fast Zn2+ ion transport through aligned vertical channels. Additionally, this configuration resolves the contradiction between low separator thickness and good dendrite-inhibition capability. These benefits are supported by finite element simulations and comprehensive experimental validation, which also underscore the critical role of modulus enhancement for separators. By employing the anisotropic separator, a prolonged life span is realized for Zn||Zn cells, along with improved cyclability in full batteries. This work presents a strategy for separator modification towards dendrite-free metal batteries. |
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| ISSN: | 2041-1723 |