I-006

Leiting Zhang

leiting.zhang@kemi.uu.se

Uppsala University, Sweden

Mastering proton activities in aqueous batteries

Aqueous batteries emerge as attractive alternatives for large-scale energy storage by offering several advantages, such as non-flammability, cost-effectiveness, and environmental benignity. However, a notable drawback of aqueous electrolytes is the limited battery cell voltage. Water’s narrow electrochemical stability window (ESW) of 1.23 V triggers hydrogen evolution reaction and oxygen evolution reaction during battery charging. Unlike some organic electrolytes, water does not form stabilizing electrode passivation layers, and rapid battery failure is often observed. In addition, the presence of protons in aqueous electrolytes introduces both opportunities and challenges, influencing charge storage mechanisms, reaction kinetics, and overall battery stability. This talk explores the fundamental role of proton activities in aqueous batteries, highlighting their impact on charge transport, side reactions, and material degradation. Understanding and mastering proton behavior is crucial for developing next-generation high-performance aqueous batteries tailored for grid-scale energy storage.