Operando x-ray fluorescence imaging for zinc-based secondary batteries

Zinc-based secondary aqueous batteries are promising candidates as innovative batteries for their high energy density and high safety. Their limited cycle life is chiefly due to the morphology changes of the zinc electrode and thus tracking the zinc distribution during electrochemical processes is indispensable for clarifying the deterioration mechanism of the zinc electrode. We here report the zinc distribution near the electrode in a millimeter scale on zinc reduction and oxidation observed by operando X-ray fluorescence imaging with a high time resolution. The zinc dendritic growth and its dissolution behavior is discussed based on the obtained zinc distribution images.