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INST Develops Additive to Boost Zinc-Ion Batteries

  • 19 Jun 2026

In June 2026, scientists at the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Mohali, developed a novel electrolyte additive that significantly improves the performance, safety and lifespan of aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs), offering a cost-effective and sustainable solution for energy storage.

Key Points:

  • New Innovation: Researchers developed a novel electrolyte additive called 1,3-bis(1,3-dicarboxypropyl)-1H-imidazole-3-ium chloride (BDIM) to improve the performance of aqueous zinc-ion batteries.
  • Why It Is Needed: AZIBs are considered safer and cheaper than lithium-ion batteries but face challenges such as zinc dendrite formation, hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), corrosion and poor cycling stability.
  • How It Works: The BDIM additive adsorbs onto the zinc surface, displaces water molecules from the electrochemical interface and suppresses hydrogen evolution, corrosion and dendrite formation, thereby improving battery stability and lifespan.
  • Applications: The technology can be used in renewable energy storage, grid-scale energy storage systems, backup power solutions and next-generation rechargeable batteries.