Electrolyte formulation progresses for dendrite-free zinc deposition in aqueous zinc-ion batteries

Aqueous zinc-ion Batteries (ZIBs) using metallic Zn anode exhibit significant potential for grid-scale stationary energy storage. However, Zn dendrite growth, associated with various side reactions, constrains the reversibility of Zn deposition/dissolution, severely hindering the practical deployment of ZIBs. Electrolyte, also known as the “blood” of the batteries, has been a hot research topic because its specific formulation is decisive to the reversibility of Zn anode. In view of the rapid progresses in this area, in this review, we provide a concise overview of recent advances in electrolyte engineering for Zn stabilization. In contrast to previous reviews focusing on electrolyte composition or effects, we summarize and discuss the impact of electrolyte on the four key stages of Zn deposition from an electrochemical perspective. It is anticipated to give some enlightening clues to the deep understanding of the underlying mechanisms of electrolyte-mediated Zn chemistry.