Scientists at the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Mohali, have developed a novel electrolyte additive that could significantly improve the performance, safety and lifespan of rechargeable zinc-ion batteries, offering a promising solution for large-scale energy storage applications.
Aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs) are increasingly being viewed as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional lithium-ion batteries. Their use of water-based electrolytes makes them safer and less prone to fire hazards. However, their commercial deployment has been limited by several technical challenges, including zinc dendrite formation, corrosion, hydrogen evolution and poor cycling stability.
Researchers from INST, an autonomous institute under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), have now designed an electrolyte additive called 1,3-bis (1,3-dicarboxypropyl)-1H-imidazole-3-ium chloride (BDIM) to overcome these limitations.
The research team, led by Dr. Ramendra Sundar Dey, Scientist E at INST Mohali, developed the additive through a synthesis process involving glutamic acid, sodium hydroxide, glyoxal, formaldehyde and acetic acid. The reaction mixture was heated under controlled conditions and subsequently processed to obtain crystalline BDIM powder.
According to the researchers, the additive plays a crucial role in regulating the electrochemical interface of zinc batteries. BDIM contains multiple oxygen and nitrogen donor sites that strongly interact with zinc metal surfaces.
During battery operation, the additive selectively adsorbs onto the negatively charged zinc electrode and occupies the Inner Helmholtz Plane (IHP), a critical region where electrochemical reactions occur. By occupying this layer, BDIM effectively displaces water molecules from the electrode surface.
This mechanism helps reduce water-induced side reactions such as hydrogen evolution and corrosion, which are major causes of battery degradation. The additive also suppresses the formation of zinc dendrites—needle-like structures that can lead to short circuits and reduced battery life.
To gain deeper insights into the zinc deposition process, the researchers employed a combination of ultramicroelectrodes (UME) and fast-scan cyclic voltammetry (FSCV). The UME, with dimensions smaller than 50 micrometres, alters diffusion behaviour from linear to radial, enabling rapid electrochemical measurements.
The FSCV technique allowed scientists to observe changes in charge-transfer behaviour after the introduction of the additive. Together, these advanced analytical methods provided direct evidence of how BDIM influences interfacial reactions and improves zinc deposition.
The findings offer valuable insights into the design of next-generation aqueous zinc-ion batteries. Unlike approaches that rely on expensive electrode materials or complex structural modifications, the use of electrolyte additives represents a practical and scalable solution.
Researchers believe the technology can contribute to the development of safer, longer-lasting and more affordable rechargeable batteries. Improved zinc-ion batteries could play a significant role in renewable energy storage, backup power systems and grid-scale energy storage applications.
As countries continue to expand renewable energy capacity, efficient and durable energy storage systems are becoming increasingly important. Enhanced battery performance can reduce maintenance requirements, improve reliability and lower the overall cost of energy storage infrastructure.
The study has been published in the journal ACS Electrochemistry and highlights the growing contribution of Indian scientists to advanced battery research. The breakthrough also demonstrates how interface engineering can address long-standing challenges in energy storage technologies.
With further development and scale-up, the new electrolyte additive could help accelerate the adoption of zinc-ion batteries as a safe and sustainable alternative for future energy storage needs.
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Author: Shivam
Shivam Dwivedi is a senior journalist with extensive experience in research-driven journalism, policy communication, and multi-platform storytelling. His areas of interest include international relations, defence, science & technology, education, urban development, agriculture, spirituality, and environmental sustainability. His work focuses on in-depth analysis, public discourse, and impactful narratives across governance and development sectors, with a strong commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Contact: [email protected]
