Stripy zinc array with preferential crystal plane for the ultra-long lifespan of zinc metal anodes for zinc ion batteries

Rechargeable zinc (Zn) batteries have been regarded as a potential alternative for energy storage instrument, but the poor life-span of Zn metal anodes restrain their commercial application. In this work, stripy Zn array (ZnSA) with preferential (002) crystal plane was designed and fabricated through the facile treatment with concentrated phosphoric acid. The depth of stripy array and the content of (002) plane were controlled through the optimization of etching time. The synergistic effect of stripy morphology and preferential crystal plane can increase the electroactive surface area, suppress the corrosion and hydrogen evolution of aqueous electrolyte, induce the horizontal growth along with basal (002) plane, and inhibit the formation of Zn dendrites. The as-synthesized ZnSA electrodes can achieve ultra-long lifespan of 2500 h at the current density of 2 mA cm⁻² with a constant capacity of 2 mAh cm⁻² and still maintain stable cycling of 1200 and 1400 h even at the higher current density of 10 mA cm⁻² and plating/stripping depth of 5 mAh cm⁻², respectively. This work proposes a facile and effective strategy to improve electrochemical performance of metallic Zn anodes and contributes to the commercial application of Zn ion batteries. (Figure presented.).