Bio‐Inspired Trace Hydroxyl‐Rich Electrolyte Additives for High‐Rate and Stable Zn‐Ion Batteries at Low Temperatures

Abstract

AbstractHigh‐rate and stable Zn‐ion batteries working at low temperatures are highly desirable for practical applications, but are challenged by sluggish kinetics and severe corrosion. Herein, inspired by frost‐resistant plants, we report trace hydroxyl‐rich electrolyte additives that implement a dual remodeling effect for high‐performance low‐temperature Zn‐ion batteries. The additive with high Zn absorbability not only remodels Zn2+ primary solvent shell by alternating H2O molecules, but also forms a shielding layer thus remodeling the Zn surface, which effectively enhances fast Zn2+ de‐solvation reaction kinetics and prohibits Zn anode corrosion. Taking trace α‐D‐glucose (αDG) as a demonstration, the electrolyte obtains a low freezing point of −55.3 °C, and the Zn//Zn cell can stably cycle for 2000 h at 5 mA cm−2 under −25 °C, with a high cumulative capacity of 5000 mAh cm−2. A full battery that stably operates for 10000 cycles at −50 °C is also demonstrated.