Indian Scientists Develop Electrolyte Additive to Boost Zinc Battery Performance

Scientists from 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 renewable energy storage.

The research, supported by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), addresses key challenges that have limited the commercialization of aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs) , including zinc dendrite formation, corrosion, hydrogen evolution reactions and poor cycling stability.

The team developed an electrolyte additive known as 1,3-bis (1,3-dicarboxypropyl)-1H-imidazole-3-ium chloride (BDIM) , which selectively adsorbs onto the zinc metal surface and regulates the Inner Helmholtz Plane (IHP) a critical region where electrochemical reactions occur.

According to the researchers, BDIM displaces water molecules from the zinc surface during battery operation, thereby suppressing hydrogen evolution, corrosion and dendrite growth. These improvements help enhance battery stability and extend operational life without requiring expensive redesigns of battery materials.

To better understand the zinc deposition process, the scientists employed advanced techniques, including ultramicroelectrodes (UME) and fast-scan cyclic voltammetry (FSCV) . The methods enabled direct investigation of charge-transfer and mass-transfer kinetics at the battery interface, providing fresh insights into zinc-deposition mechanisms.

The study was led by Dr. Ramendra Sundar Dey , Scientist E at INST Mohali, and has been published in the journal ACS Electrochemistry.

Researchers said the technology could contribute to the development of safer, longer-lasting and more affordable batteries for renewable energy storage, backup power systems and grid-scale energy infrastructure. By improving battery durability and reducing performance degradation, the innovation could help lower maintenance costs and strengthen the reliability of sustainable energy systems.