Progress in Interfacial and Structural Modification Strategies for Zinc Anodes in Aqueous Zinc-ion Batteries

Aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs) have emerged as a highly promising candidate for large-scale energy storage due to their high safety, resource abundance, low cost, and the high theoretical capacity of zinc anodes. However, the development of AZIBs is significantly constrained by a series of side reactions at the zinc metal anode, including zinc dendrite growth, hydrogen evolution, corrosion, and surface passivation, which severely hinder cycling life and commercialization. This review systematically summarizes the main modification strategies for zinc anodes developed in recent years, focusing on four key approaches: interface regulation, structural design, electrolyte optimization, and separator modification. It elaborates on the mechanisms and synergistic effects of various modification strategies and provides a critical assessment of the advantages and limitations of different methods. Finally, future research directions for achieving zinc anodes with long lifespan, high safety, and high reversibility are outlined, aiming to provide theoretical insights for advancing both the scientific research and commercialization of high-performance aqueous zinc-ion batteries.