# ERI: Understanding and Designing Electrolytes and Polymer Coatings to Enable Stable Zn Metal Anode

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · Southern Methodist University (TX) · $200,000

## Abstract

This project will contribute to the development of low-cost, safe, and sustainable energy storage solutions to meet future energy and environmental challenges. Zinc metal batteries offer a safer, more sustainable alternative to lithium-ion batteries due to Zinc’s (Zn) domestic abundance, lower cost, and large global reserves. However, challenges like battery short circuits, corrosion, and hydrogen evolution reactions limit the battery’s energy storage capacity and cycling stability. The research focuses on Zn aqueous batteries by addressing dendrite formation or short circuiting—a major barrier to their wide application. Insights gained from this work will enhance the performance and safety of Zn batteries, paving the way for their use in large-scale energy storage. The project integrates research with course development, promoting hands-on learning in energy storage technologies. It will provide unique opportunities for students (both graduate and undergraduate) to engage in cutting-edge research and pursue careers in energy fields. 

The issues of Zn dendrite formation arise from the Zn-ion solvation structure and interfacial properties, where water-coordinated Zn²⁺ ions slow ion transfer and cause parasitic reactions. While super-concentrated electrolytes can reduce these effects, they are costly and have lower conductivity. Controlling Zn-ion solvation structure in both bulk and at the interface is essential for enhancing Zinc-metal battery performance and requires furt

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2502247
- **Awardee organization:** Southern Methodist University (TX)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** D33QGS3Q3DJ3
- **PI:** Rong Kou
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** —
- **Estimated total:** $200,000
- **Funds obligated:** $200,000
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 06/01/2025 → 05/31/2027

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2502247

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2502247, ERI: Understanding and Designing Electrolytes and Polymer Coatings to Enable Stable Zn Metal Anode. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-08 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2502247. Licensed CC0.

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