Cu–Sn Alloy Nanoparticle-Modified Carbon Nanofibers for Dendrite-Free Zinc-Ion Batteries

Aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs) are currently highly promising rechargeable batteries offering affordable prices and high reliability. However, the uncontrolled expansion of zinc dendrites, hydrogen evolution reaction, and adverse reaction greatly affect their potential sustainable application. Herein, Cu–Sn nanoparticle alloy-modified carbon nanofibers (Cu/Sn–C) are constructed as a buffer interface region onto the zinc anode. The high density of zincophilic sites of the Cu/Sn–C contributes a homogeneous Zn deposition behavior, ameliorates potential separator penetration of zinc dendrites, and weakens corrosions and adverse reactions. As a result, Cu/Sn–C exhibits a low zinc nucleation overpotential of 33.2 mV and dendrite-free zinc deposition. Besides, a symmetric cell with Cu/Sn–C@Zn anode exhibits outstanding cycling lifespan with over 3500 h at 1 mA cm −2 for 1 mAh cm −2 . Furthermore, Cu/Sn–C@Zn//Mn x V 2 O 5 full battery also achieves stable cycling at 5 A g −1 . This work provides a significant avenue for enhancing the reliability of the Zn anode, thereby facilitating the advancement of widespread applications for the next-generation AZIBs. Graphical Cu–Sn nanoparticle alloy-modified carbon nanofibers (Cu/Sn–C) are constructed as a buffer interface region onto the Zn metal anode. The abundant zincophilic sites of the Cu/Sn–C contribute a homogeneous Zn deposition behavior and weaken side reactions. Therefore, Cu/Sn–C presents a superior rate capability and long-term cycling stability.