This research demonstrates the impact of oxygen concentration on coulombic efficiency in zinc batteries, suggesting critical electrochemical implications.
Rechargeable aqueous Zn-based batteries represent a family of promising energy storage and load leveling technologies due to their safety and low production cost. However, the reversibility of Zn metal electrodeposition is challenged by the non-uniformity of deposition, and by the electrochemical constraints of metals in water-based electrolyte solutions. This research is focused on the effects of atmosphere on Zn electrodeposition with non-alkaline electrolytes, with an emphasis on reproducibility and cell-to-cell variability. We compare the coulombic efficiency (CE) and overpotentials for the cells under argon, ambient air and pure oxygen with two near-neutral electrolytes, 1M aqueous solutions of zinc sulfate and zinc acetate, and characterize Zn electrodes ex situ using X-ray diffraction and electron microscopy. Importantly, negative correlation between oxygen concentration and CE is observed for both electrolytes. Our findings bring to light practical perspectives related to the realization of reversible Zn anode in aqueous solutions.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Elmakies et al. (2025) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: