Electrolyte Modulation Strategies for Low-Temperature Zn Batteries

Abstract

Aqueous rechargeable Zn metal batteries (ARZBs) are extensively studied recently because of their low-cost, high-safety, long lifespan, and other unique merits. However, the terrible ion conductivity and insufficient interfacial redox dynamics at low temperatures restrict their extended applications under harsh environments such as polar inspections, deep sea exploration, and daily use in cold regions. Electrolyte modulation is considered to be an effective way to achieve low-temperature operation for ARZBs. In this review, first, the fundamentals of the liquid–solid transition of water at low temperatures are revealed, and an in-depth understanding of the critical factors for inferior performance at low temperatures is given. Furthermore, the electrolyte modulation strategies are categorized into anion/concentration regulation, organic co-solvent/additive introduction, anti-freezing hydrogels construction, and eutectic mixture design strategies, and emphasize the recent progress of these strategies in low-temperature Zn batteries. Finally, promising design principles for better electrolytes are recommended and future research directions about high-performance ARZBs at low temperatures are provided.