A functionalized separator enables dendrite‐free Zn anode via metal‐polydopamine coordination chemistry

Abstract Designing a multifunctional separator with abundant ion migration paths is crucial for tuning the ion transport in rocking‐chair‐type batteries. Herein, a polydopamine‐functionalized PVDF (PVDF@PDA) nanofibrous membrane is designed to serve as a separator for aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (AZIBs). The functional groups (OH and NH) in PDA facilitate the formation of ZnO and ZnN coordination bonds with Zn ions, homogenizing the Zn‐ion flux and thus enabling dendrite‐free Zn deposition. Moreover, the PVDF@PDA separator effectively inhibits the shuttling of V‐species through the formation of VO coordination bonds. As a result, the Zn/NH 4 V 4 O 10 battery with the PVDF@PDA separator exhibits enhanced…

• NN
  National Natural Science Foundation of China

  Awards: 52172263, 51972346
• CS
  Central South University

  Award: 2020CX024
• IP
  Innovation-Driven Project of Central South University

  Award: 2020CX024