Symmetric is nonidentical: Operation history matters for Zn metal anode

Zn metal electrode is the key to enabling the full vision of next-generation Zn-metal batteries (ZMBs). Thus far, the critical dendrite issue still restricts the Zn anode lifespan, which has even become the Achilles heel to the rejuvenation of ZMBs. This highlight previews the latest advance of Zn anode research, which suggests that Zn electrodes with initial stripping and plating can surprisingly lead to different morphology evolution routes. A proposed pre-deposition strategy is demonstrated to stabilize the Zn anode and homogenize further Zn plating/stripping.