Aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs) have been widely developed as promising next-generation energy storage devices due to their low cost, intrinsic safety, and environmental friendliness. However, a series of side reactions faced by zinc anodes hinder their further application. This review starts with a systematic discussion of the challenges faced by zinc anode including zinc dendrites, hydrogen evolution, corrosion, passivation, and the low utilization, as well as their effects on battery performance. Subsequently, the design principles of zinc anodes and related optimization strategies including interfacial engineering, structural engineering, and alloy anode construction are systematically described from the perspectives of different materials. Finally, emerging opportunities and perspectives in the optimization of zinc anodes are highlighted, along with an in-depth discussion of the challenges that must be addressed for future practical applications.
Xv et al. (2025) studied this question.