A novel solvent system of polyamides achieves new application in ZIBs by aggregation induced Lewis acid-base centers

Dissolutions of the polymer in the chaotropic salts follow Hofmeister effect, and the aggregate of salts and solvents shows new influence of the Hofmeister effect. Here, we reveal the aggregation of ion–solvent in chaotropic salt solution catalyzes the formation of the exposed Lewis acid-base center and realizes the dissolution of polyamide (PA) macromolecules. The relationship between Hofmeister effect, aggregate chemistry and Lewis acid-base chemistry is examined from new perspective. And then, a new solvent system and phase conversion process are designed for polyamides. Finally, the applications of PA in ZIBs as coating layer and binder are realized. As an electrode coating, it can effectively inhibit hydrogen evolution, corrosion and dendrite problems and improve the cycle life (cycle over 1500 h at 0.5 mA cm−2). As a binder, the active material adhesion on current collector, uniformity and wettability of the electrode are improved. The assembled pouch-cell with PANI cathode shows a capacity of 150 mAh g−1 after 120 cycles. This work reveals the secret of controlled phase transformation of polyamide in saline solution from a new perspective. And this phase conversion method is simpler, greener and more environmentally friendly, which greatly accelerates the application of polyamide in the field of membrane science and binder science.