Act in contravention: a non-planar coupled electrode design utilizing “tip effect” for ultra-high areal capacity, long cycle life zinc-based batteries

Abstract Aqueous zinc-based batteries (ZBBs) have great potential as commercial energy storage devices. However, the poor cycling stability of zinc anode under high areal capacity limits their further application. Herein, a coupled non-planar electrode design achieved by the tailored flat-top pyramid carbon felt (TCF) is proposed for ZBBs, which can effectively increase the zinc deposition sites, adjust the deposition morphology, optimize the current and electrolyte flow velocity distribution and provide necessary space for zinc plating. Interestingly, by utilizing “tip effect”, the coupled TCFs enable precise control of the zinc dendrite growth position, effectively reducing the risk of short circuit. Based on such coupled TCFs, zinc-iodine flow batteries can deliver an ultra-high areal capacity of 240 mAh cm−2 and a superb cycling stability over 300 cycles (areal capacity of 160 mAh cm−2) at a high current density of 40 mA cm−2. Therefore, we provide an effective strategy for high areal capacity zinc anode design, which may promote the development of high energy density and long cycle life ZBBs.