Interfacial parasitic reactions of zinc anodes in zinc ion batteries: Underestimated corrosion and hydrogen evolution reactions and their suppression strategies

Featured with high power density, improved safety and low-cost, rechargeable aqueous zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs) have been revived as possible candidates for sustainable energy storage systems in recent years. However, the challenges inherent in zinc (Zn) anode, namely dendrite formation and interfacial parasitic reactions, have greatly impeded their practical application. Whereas the critical issue of dendrite formation has attracted widespread concern, the parasitic reactions of Zn anodes with mildly acidic electrolytes have received very little attentions. Considering that the low Zn reversibility that stems from interfacial parasitic reactions is the major obstacle to the commercialization of ZIBs, thorough understanding of these side reactions and the development of correlative inhibition strategies are significant. Therefore, in this review, the brief fundamentals of corrosion and hydrogen evolution reactions at Zn surface is presented. In addition, recent advances and research efforts addressing detrimental side reactions are reviewed from the perspective of electrode design, electrode–electrolyte interfacial engineering and electrolyte modification. To facilitate the future researches on this aspect, perspectives and suggestions for relevant investigations are provided lastly.