Carbon Nanotube–Polymer Composite Coating on the Anode Surface for Enhancing the Performance of Zn-Ion Batteries

Abstract

Despite their outstanding safety, longevity, environmental friendliness, and high energy storage capabilities, the deterioration and damage of the Zn anode of Zn-ion batteries (ZIBs), their inadequate wettability, and a lack of sufficient nucleation points for Zn plating have hindered the further development of ZIBs. Thus, research efforts are focused on improving safety by coating Zn anodes with protective materials, such as carbon, ceramics, or polymers. This study coated the surface of Zn anode with a protective composite consisting of poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) to protect it and improve its electrochemical performance. The PVDF coating functioned as an effective barrier against Zn dissolution and corrosion, while the CNTs enriched the anode with abundant sites for Zn deposition and significantly diminished the surface resistance of the electrode. The ZIB fabricated using the coated Zn anode exhibited an enhanced specific capacity of 253 mA h g–1 at 0.3 A g–1, maintaining a specific capacity of 91 mA h g–1 over 500 cycles at 0.5 A g–1. The results suggest that employing a composite protective layer made of PVDF and CNT is a promising method for enhancing the energy storage potential of ZIBs. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Korean Institute of Chemical Engineers, Seoul, Korea 2024.