Exploring 3D-Printed Electrodes for Improved Zinc-Ion Battery Performance

Zinc-ion batteries are increasingly recognized as a viable alternative for safe and reusable energy storage systems. Their broader adoption, however, is constrained by challenges such as limited cycling life, slow ion transport, side reactions, and dendrite growth. 3D-printed electrodes have shown potential in mitigating some of these issues and improving the cycling performance of zinc-ion batteries. In this presentation, we will introduce a novel design of interpenetrating 3D-printed electrodes, developed through simulation and experimental validation. We will discuss the geometry, transport dynamics, mechanical stability, and electrochemical properties of these 3D structures. Through simulations, we have identified strategies for optimization, considering both performance enhancement and the feasibility of printing. We will also explore key structural parameters that are critical to the effectiveness and manufacturability of these designs. Our findings offer insights into enhancing the performance of zinc-ion batteries, contributing to the ongoing development in energy storage technologies.<br/>This work was performed under the auspices of the U.S. Department of Energy by Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory under Contract DE-AC52-07NA27344.