Secondary Zinc–Air Batteries: A View on Rechargeability Aspects

Abstract

Metal–air batteries hold a competitive energy density and are frequently recommended as a solution for low-cost, environmentally friendly electrochemical energy storage applications. Rechargeable zinc–air batteries are prominently studied future devices for energy storage applications. Up to date and despite substantial efforts over the last decades, it is not commercialized on a broader scale because of inadequate performance. Most essential, the ultimate long-term functional zinc–air battery has yet to be discovered. This challenge should be resolved appropriately before articulating the zinc–air batteries to commercial reality and be deployed widespread. We review the present status and some breakthroughs in rechargeable zinc–air batteries research in the last few years, focusing on the anode-related issues. A critical overview of the last five years of the still less explored but essential aspects of rechargeability in zinc–air batteries, such as zinc utilization, solid electrolyte interface, and cell design is presented, some perspectives on possible solutions are offered.