A Bioinspired Gradient Hydrogel Electrolyte Network with Optimized Interfacial Chemistry toward Robust Aqueous Zinc-Ion Batteries

Hydrogel electrolytes are regarded as a promising option for high-performance aqueous zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs), but they frequently fail to balance the reaction kinetics and Zn2+ deposition stability. Inspired by articular cartilage, here we develop a gradient-networked hydrogel electrolyte comprising poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA), cellulose nanofiber (CNF), and graphene oxide (GO) for ZIBs. The low-network-density PVA/CNF (PC) hydrogel layer (cathode side) with extensive channels and a higher water content ensures the rapid transport of ions, while the interfacial hydrogel layer in contact with the Zn anode exhibits a high-density PVA/CNF/GO (PCG) network with enriched carboxyl and hydroxyl groups, which…

• NN
  National Natural Science Foundation of China

  Awards: 22461142135, 52202288
• CP
  China Postdoctoral Science Foundation

  Award: 2022M710106
• DO
  Department of Science and Technology of Sichuan Province

  Award: 2023NSFSC0443
• FR
  Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities

  Award: 691000003