Unlocking the secrets of water-ion interactions and energy storage mechanisms in quasi-solid-state aqueous electrolytes

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Quasi-solid aqueous electrolytes offer unprecedented opportunities for safe, fast and efficient energy storage. Yet, little is known about the ion transport, solvation structure and electrochemical storage mechanism in these electrolytes, which exist at the boundary of liquids and solids. This project aims to explore a new avenue in the design of quasi-solid-state electrolytes based on water/salt/polymer mixtures containing high concentrations of zinc and chlorine-based ions. This approach will enable us to investigate the fundamental physicochemical properties of the electrolytes and the interplay between water-ion and water-polymer interactions as a function of concentration and temperature. Moreover, we will examine ion transport behavior, insertion/intercalation and ion-specific-electrode interactions at Zn metal and layered material electrodes using advanced analytical and electrochemical methods. By doing so, we will design new safe, flexible, highly conductive, and high-voltage quasi-solid electrolytes for the future generation of rechargeable Zn-ion batteries.