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Aqueous Zn‐based batteries have emerged as compelling candidates for grid‐scale energy storage, owing to their intrinsic safety, remarkable theoretical energy density and cost‐effectiveness. Nonetheless, the dendrite formation, side reactions, and corrosion on anode have overshadowed their practical applications. Herein, we present an in situ grown carbon network reinforcing Zn matrix anode prepared by powder metallurgy. This carbon network provides an uninterrupted internal electron transport pathway and optimize the surface electric field distribution, thereby enabling highly reversible Zn deposition. Consequently, symmetrical cells demonstrate impressive stability, running for over 880 h with a low voltage hysteresis (≈32 mV). Furthermore, this Zn matrix composite anode exhibits enhanced performance in both the aqueous Zn‐ion and the Zn‐air batteries. Notably, Zn//MnO2 cells display superior rate capabilities, while Zn‐air batteries deliver high power density and impressive Zn utilization rate (84.9 %). This work provides a new idea of powder metallurgy method for modified Zn anodes, showcasing potential for large‐scale production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The advent of wearable electronics has strongly stimulated advanced research into the exploration of flexible zinc−air batteries (ZABs) with high theoretical energy density, high inherent safety, and low cost. However, the half‐open battery structure and the high concentration of alkaline aqueous environment pose great challenges on the electrolyte retention capability and the zinc anode stability. Herein, a starch‐based superabsorbent hydrogel polymer electrolyte (SSHPE) with high ionic conductivity, electrolyte absorption and retention capabilities, strong alkaline resistance and high zinc anode stability has been designed and applied in ZABs. Experimental and calculational analyses probe into the root of the superiority of SSHPEs, confirming the significance of the carboxyl functional groups along their polymer chains. These features endow the as‐fabricated ZAB a long cycle life of 300 h, much longer than that with commonly used poly(vinyl alcohol)‐based electrolyte. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]