Abstract: Aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs) are promising to be widely used in large-scale energy storage devices due to their low cost, safety, and environmental friendliness. However, side reactions, including dendrite growth, anode corrosion, and electrode passivation, caused by uneven zinc deposition hinder further practical applications of AZIBs. Constructing artificial interfacial layers (AILs) is an effective strategy to stabilize zinc anodes, which has received significant attention. Herein, this review summarizes the basic principles, design strategies, and electrochemical performances of the AILs for Zn2+ ions. First, the side reactions on Zn anodes and their electrochemical mechanisms are briefly discussed. The classification, components, structural features, synthetic methods, and electrochemical mechanisms of the AILs are then combed in detail with a focus on the interaction between Zn anodes and AILs based on underlying electrochemical processes. Finally, the prospects of the AILs for the future development of AZIBs are proposed.

Key words: Aqueous zinc-ion batteries, Zinc metal anodes, Artificial interface layer, Zn dendrites, Electrochemical mechanisms