Flexible zinc–air batteries attract more attention due to their high energy density, safety, environmental protection, and low cost. However, the traditional aqueous electrolyte has the disadvantages of leakage and water evaporation, which cannot meet application demand of flexible zinc–air batteries. Hydrogels possessing good conductivity and mechanical properties become a candidate as the electrolytes of flexible zinc–air batteries. In this work, advances in aspects of conductivity, mechanical toughness, environmental adaptability, and interfacial compatibility of hydrogel electrolytes for flexible zinc–air batteries are investigated. First, the additives to improve conductivity of hydrogel electrolytes are summarized. Second, the measures to enhance the mechanical properties of hydrogels are taken by way of structure optimization and composition modification. Third, the environmental adaptability of hydrogel electrolytes is listed in terms of temperature, humidity, and air composition. Fourth, the compatibility of electrolyte–electrode interface is discussed from physical properties of hydrogels. Finally, the prospect for development and application of hydrogels is put forward.

柔性锌空气电池因其能量密度高、安全、环保、成本低而备受关注。然而，传统的水性电解液存在漏液和水分蒸发的缺点，无法满足柔性锌空气电池的应用需求。具有良好导电性和机械性能的水凝胶成为柔性锌空气电池电解质的候选者。在这项工作中，研究了用于柔性锌空气电池的水凝胶电解质在导电性、机械韧性、环境适应性和界面相容性方面的进展。首先，总结了提高水凝胶电解质电导率的添加剂。第二，提高水凝胶力学性能的措施主要是通过结构优化和成分改性。第三，从温度、湿度和空气成分方面列出了水凝胶电解质的环境适应性。第四，从水凝胶的物理性质讨论电解质-电极界面的相容性。最后，对水凝胶的发展和应用提出了展望。