To promote sustainable development and reduce fossil fuel consumption, there is a growing demand for high-performance, cost-effective, safe and environmentally friendly batteries for large-scale energy storage systems. Among the emerging technologies, zinc-air batteries (ZABs) have attracted significant interest. By integrating the principles of traditional zinc-ion batteries and fuel cells, ZABs offer remarkably high theoretical energy density at lower production cost compared to the current state-of-the-art lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). However, the critical challenge remains in developing high-performance zinc anode. Herein, this review provides a comprehensive analysis of the current status and advancements in zinc anodes for rechargeable aqueous ZABs. We begin by highlighting the major challenges and underlying mechanisms associated with zinc anodes including issues such as uneven zinc deposition, dendrite growth and hydrogen evolution reaction. Then, this review discusses the recent advancements in zinc anode modifications, focusing on strategies such as alloying, surface porosity and zincophilicity. By reviewing the latest research, we also identify existing gaps and pose critical questions that need further exploration to push the field forward. The goal of this review is to inspire new research directions and promote the development of more efficient zinc anodes.
Traditionally employed in alloy corrosion studies, dealloying has evolved into a versatile technique for fabricating advanced porous materials. The unique architecture of interconnected pore channels and continuous metal ligaments endows dealloyed materials with high surface-to-volume ratio, excellent electron conductivity, efficient mass transport and remarkable catalytic activity, positioning them at the forefront of nanomaterial applications with significant potential. However, reproducible synthesis of these structures remains challenging due to limitations in conventional dealloying techniques. Herein, this review attempts to consolidate recent progress in electrochemical and chemical dealloying methods for nanoporous anodes in energy storage and conversion applications. We begin by elucidating the fundamental mechanisms driving dealloying and evaluate key factors influencing dealloying conditions. Through a review of current research, we identify critical properties of dealloyed nanoporous anodes that warrant further investigation. Applications of these materials as anodes in metal-ion batteries, supercapacitors, water splitting and photocatalyst are discussed. Lastly, we address ongoing challenges in this field and propose perspectives on promising research directions. This review aims to inspire new pathways and foster the development of efficient dealloyed porous anodes for sustainable energy technologies.