Polymer gels for aqueous metal batteries

Tianfu Zhang, Keliang Wang*, Hengwei Wang, Manhui Wei, Zhuo Chen, Daiyuan Zhong, Yunxiang Chen, Pucheng Pei

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

Abstract

With the advantages of high energy density and low cost, aqueous metal batteries have received widespread attention as energy conversion and storage devices. Polymer gels are suitable electrolytes because of their high chemical stability, safety, and inhibition of metal dendrites. However, the commercial application of polymer gels is challenged by factors that include electrolyte–electrode interfaces, external forces, and extreme environments. In addition, it is challenging to design polymer gels that satisfy multiple needs due to trade-offs between different properties. In this review, we present recent advances in polymer gels for aqueous metal batteries. First, the advantages of polymer gels as electrolytes are summarized. Then, the relationship among the structural, properties, and applications of polymer gels is discussed in detail to motivate the exploitation of high-performance polymer gels. The special requirements of different metal batteries for polymer gels are also summarized, including flame retardancy, anode protection, and decomposition of parasitic products. Subsequently, synthesis strategies based on machine learning and characterization techniques for polymer gels are highlighted. Finally, the challenges and future prospects of polymer gels for applications in aqueous electrical energy storage devices are discussed. This review aims to provide guidance for the design of advanced and compatible polymer gels.

Original languageEnglish
Article number101426
JournalProgress in Materials Science
Volume151
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - May 2025

Keywords

  • Aqueous metal batteries
  • Ion conductivity
  • Machine learning
  • Mechanical strength
  • Polymer gels

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Zhang, T., Wang, K., Wang, H., Wei, M., Chen, Z., Zhong, D., Chen, Y., & Pei, P. (2025). Polymer gels for aqueous metal batteries. Progress in Materials Science, 151, Article 101426. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pmatsci.2025.101426