Zinc-Ion Batteries Beyond the Lab: Recent Progress on Cold-Climate Operation and Real-World Feasibility

Abstract

Aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs) have garnered attention as safe, low-cost, and sustainable alternatives to lithium-ion systems for energy storage. Their advantages include high volumetric capacity, material abundance, and environmental compatibility. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of AZIBs, primarily focusing on recent breakthroughs in battery materials and interfaces under subzero conditions, including the anode, cathode, and electrolyte. Fundamental challenges such as dendrite formation, hydrogen evolution, cathode dissolution, structural instability, and sluggish Zn2+ diffusion are discussed. Recent strategies to address these issues include alloying, 3D-structured anodes, interfacial engineering, and electrolyte innovations such as water-in-salt systems, deep eutectic solvents, and polymer-based gels. Special emphasis is placed on low-temperature performance, where electrolyte freezing and kinetic limitations severely hinder operation. Emerging trends in battery form factors and stretchable devices, as well as 3D-printed microbatteries, are examined alongside their commercial application potential in grid storage, consumer electronics, and biomedical devices. Finally, future directions highlight integrated approaches for enhancing energy density, cycling stability, and manufacturability, with a focus on sustainability and cost-effectiveness. These insights aim to accelerate the commercialization of AZIBs and position them as a viable solution for next-generation energy storage systems.