Carbon-assisted anodes and cathodes for zinc ion batteries: From basic science to specific applications, opportunities and challenges

Aqueous zinc ion batteries (AZIBs) enjoy high favor for the next generation of safe and large-scale energy storage devices. Nevertheless, the inferior cycle life of both anode and cathode severely hinders their commercial applications, calling for further breakthroughs in electrode modification. Carbon materials hold great potential in this regard due to their distinctive features of high surface area, excellent conductivity, outstanding thermal/chemical stability, low cost and tunable chemical properties. In this review, we provide a systematic outline of recent progresses in carbon-assisted anodes and cathodes for AZIBs, starting with current challenges for each electrode and corresponding mechanisms. The powerful roles of carbon materials are highlighted as 3D substrates, interface layers and electrolyte additives for Zn anode, while as conductive substrates, encapsulants and interlayer pillars for the cathode. Finally, a brief summary and perspectives in the future of carbon materials for AZIBs are prospected.