Localized Electrolyte Based on Hexanediol for Use in Aqueous Zn-Ion Batteries
Subject Areas :
1 - Assistant professor, Department of Metallurgy Engineering, Payame Noor University, Tehran, Iran
Keywords: Zinc-ion battery, Loclized electrolyte, solvation structure, hexanediol,
Abstract :
High-concentration electrolytes with a wide electrochemical stability window and improved safety have been a significant advancement in the field of aqueous batteries and capacitors in recent years. However, the sluggish diffusion of metal ions such as lithium, magnesium, and zinc in these electrolytes, along with their high production costs, has limited their performance in practical applications. To overcome these challenges, organic solvents can be used as diluents, reducing production costs and improving solubility and battery kinetics. In this study, the physicochemical properties of a localized 10 m zinc chloride electrolyte diluted with various weight ratios of hexanediol were investigated. The results indicate that a weight ratio of hexanediol above 1:1 makes the electrolyte flammable, making it unsuitable for high-security batteries. Conversely, adding a diluent to the high-concentrated 10 m zinc chloride electrolyte reduces viscosity, significantly enhancing battery kinetics. At a 1:1 weight ratio, the viscosity was 17.8 mm²/s, compared to 27.6 mm²/s for the undiluted sample. Using a diluent also increased the electrochemical stability window to approximately 3.41 V, due to changes in the electrolyte's solubility structure, as confirmed by Raman spectroscopy. The electrochemical behavior of the electrolyte was evaluated with a CuHCF working electrode, showing an initial capacity of about 51 mAh/g and a capacity retention of 53%, compared to only 13% for the undiluted electrolyte.
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