Fabrication of large frame zincophilic bimetallic compounds as protective coatings for highly efficient Zn metal anodes

The integration of an artificial protective coating into the Zn metal anode is considered as a highly efficient approach to minimize growth of Zn dendrites. The present study involves the design and synthesis of NiCo nanomaterials featuring a three-dimensional (3D) open structure and an abundance of active groups on their surface. Subsequently, NiCo nanomaterials are applied as a protective coating onto Zn foil to safeguard the Zn anode. The NiCo protective coating provides a rich zincophilic site, thus enhancing the stability of the electrode and effectively inhibiting Zn dendrite growth. Hence, the NiCo@Zn\\|NiCo@Zn symmetric cell with a lifespan up to 950 h at a current density of 2 mA cm−2. When paired with NH4V4O10, the full battery exhibits satisfied ultra-long cycle stability, maintaining good capacity retention after 3000 cycles at 10 A g−1. This work provides a new idea for the practical application of zinc ion batteries.