Stable zinc metal anode with an ultrathin carbon coating for zinc-ion batteries

Owing to the good safety, low cost, environmentally friendliness, and relatively high energy density, aqueous zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs) are promising alternatives to lithium-ion batteries. However, the zinc metal anode in aqueous ZIBs is prone to dendrite growth and side reactions. Herein, an ultrathin carbon coating is fabricated on the Zn metal anode to suppress dendrite growth and alleviate side reactions. The symmetrical cell containing the modified Zn electrode shows a long cycling life of 3500 h at 0.5, 1 and 2 mA cm−2 with areal capacities of 0.5, 1 and 2 mAh cm−2, respectively. The cycling life is superior to those of previously reported Zn metal anodes with carbon-based coatings. Meanwhile, the full ZIB using Zn anode with ultrathin carbon coating deliver enhanced rate performance and cycling stability compared to that of using bare Zn anode.