Regulating Water Molecules via Bioinspired Covalent Organic Framework Membranes for Zn Metal Anodes

Abstract The Zn metal anode in aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (AZIBs) faces daunting challenges including undesired water‐induced parasitic reactions and sluggish ion migration kinetics. Herein, we develop three‐dimensional covalent organic framework (COF) membranes with bioinspired ion channels toward stabilized Zn anodes. These COFs, featured by zincophilic pyridine‐N sites, enable effective regulation of water molecules at the anode‐electrolyte interphase. Systematic experimental analysis and theoretical simulations reveal the optimized COF‐320N membrane functions as ion pumps, accordingly facilitating Zn 2+ transport and inhibiting direct contact between Zn anode and free water molecules. Consequently, the…

• EP
  Electric Power Research Institute
• NN
  National Natural Science Foundation of China

  Awards: 22179089, 52307159, 52173235
• CU
  Chongqing University

  Award: CYB23026
• IA
  Innovation and Technology Commission
• RA
  Research and Innovation Foundation