Carbon-based nanomaterials for stabilizing zinc metal anodes towards high-performance aqueous zinc-ion batteries

Aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs) have a fascinating application prospect in the next generation of safe, large-scale energy storage devices. However, Zn metal anodes have limitations, including uneven Zn deposition, hydrogen evolution reaction, and corrosion, resulting in poor cycling stability, which seriously hinders their practical application. Carbon-based materials with controllable structure, performance, high surface area, outstanding electrical conductivity, and thermal/chemical stability, have emerged as a key focus in facilitating the uniform growth of Zn and achieving high-performance zinc anodes. In this review, we systematically summarize the latest progress in carbon assisted AZIBs anodes and propose a new strategy for designing high-performance zinc anodes using carbon materials. These strategies include the utilization of carbon materials as coatings, interlayers, 3D substrates, host materials, and electrolyte additives for zinc anodes. By integrating carbon materials into the design of zinc anodes, we can mitigate the challenges associated with Zn deposition, promote improved cycling stability, and ultimately enhance the overall performance of AZIBs. Furthermore, we offer a summary of the current progress and prospects of carbon materials in stabilizing zinc metal anodes. This review aims to shed light on the crucial role of carbon materials in addressing the limitations of Zn metal anodes and provide valuable insights for the future development of AZIBs.