The 3D nano-trench interface to manipulate the stripping/plating behavior for stable Zn anode

The issue of Zn dendrites has been limiting the further application of aqueous Zn ion batteries. In this work, the three-dimensional trench interface on the surface of the Zn foil is constructed by a simple etching method to buffer the formation of the Zn dendrite. Importantly, the relationship between stripping/plating behavior and dendrite formation, especially stripping behavior, is systematically analyzed using Ex-situ scanning electron microscope and finite element method. The low current density interface designed by etching a three-dimensional trench structure plays a key role in controlling the formation of the Zn dendrite. Therefore, the resultant Zn anode can be stably cycled up to 1800h at the current density of 1 mA cm−2 in the symmetric cell and displays a discharge capacity of 120.1 mAh g−1 after 1000 cycles at a current density of 1 A g−1 in a full cell. This strategy affords a generic approach for large-scale applications of metal anodes in aqueous systems.