Ultra-High-Capacity and Dendrite-Free Zinc–Sulfur Conversion Batteries Based on a Low-Cost Deep Eutectic Solvent

Traditional cathodes for aqueous Zn-ion batteries are afflicted by a limited specific capacity and fearful Zn dendrites. Herein, these troubles are disposed of with a conversion-type Zn-S battery and low-cost deep eutectic solvent (DES). By utilizing the optimized electrolyte, the symmetrical Zn battery can stably cycle over 3920 h, which also confers on the Zn-S battery an ultrahigh specific capacity of ∼846 mA h g_S^-1 and energy density of 259 W h kg^-1 at 0.5 A g^-1. Importantly, the conversion chemistry of S and ZnS is responsible for the superior anti-self-discharge behavior (capacity retention: 94.58 and 68.58% after standing for 72 and 288 h versus Zn//VO₂ battery: 76.82 and 47.80% after resting for 24 and 72 h versus Zn//MnO₂ battery: 95.96 and 91.57% after resting for 24 and 72 h, respectively). This work is the first authentication of Zn-S batteries based on a newly developed low-cost DES-based electrolyte, which meanwhile settles the deep-rooted low specific capacity and infamous Zn dendrite issues in conventional (de)intercalation Zn-ion batteries.