Realizing Textured Zinc Metal Anodes through Regulating Electrodeposition Current for Aqueous Zinc Batteries

Crystallography modulation of zinc (Zn) metal anode is promising to promote Zn reversibility in aqueous electrolytes, but efficiently constructing Zn with specific crystallographic texture remains challenging. Herein, we report a current-controlled electrodeposition strategy to texture the Zn electrodeposits in conventional aqueous electrolytes. Using the electrolytic cell with low-cost Zn(CH₃ COO)₂ electrolyte and Cu substrate as a model system, the texture of as-deposited Zn gradually transforms from (101) to (002) crystal plane as increasing the current density from 20 to 80 mA cm^-2 . Moreover, the high current accelerates the Zn nucleation rate with abundant nuclei, enabling uniform deposition. The (002) texture permits stronger resistance to dendrite growth and interfacial side reactions than the (101) texture. The resultant (002)-textured Zn electrode achieves deep cycling stability and supports the stable operation of full batteries with conventional V/Mn-based oxide cathodes.