Recent advancement in electrolyte optimization for rechargeable aqueous zinc–sulfur (Zn–S) batteries

Zinc–sulfur (Zn–S) batteries have attracted a lot of interest in the field of battery development due to their many benefits, which include their extremely high theoretical capacity and energy density, low cost, and excellent safety. However, the development of aqueous Zn–S batteries is hampered by the slow reaction kinetics of sulphur, lower discharge voltage, cathode volume expansion during zincation, and corrosion and hydrogen precipitation reactions of the negative electrode in aqueous electrolyte. These factors also seriously affect the cycle life of Zn–S batteries. This review outlines the advancements made in the field of aqueous electrolyte modification in Zn–S batteries in recent years, emphasises the significance of optimising aqueous electrolytes in raising Zn–S battery performance, and suggests future research avenues based on the findings of the current studies.