Energy density is the main property of rechargeable batteries that has driven the entire technology forward in past decades. Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) now surpass other, previously competitive battery types (for example, lead–acid and nickel metal hydride) but still require extensive further improvement to, in particular, extend the operation hours of mobile IT devices and the driving mileages of all-electric vehicles. In this Review, we present a critical overview of a wide range of post-LIB materials and systems that could have a pivotal role in meeting such demands. We divide battery systems into two categories: near-term and long-term technologies. To provide a realistic and balanced perspective, we describe the operating principles and remaining issues of each post-LIB technology, and also evaluate these materials under commercial cell configurations. Post-lithium-ion batteries are reviewed with a focus on their operating principles, advantages and the challenges that they face. The volumetric energy density of each battery is examined using a commercial pouch-cell configuration to evaluate its practical significance and identify appropriate research directions.

Promise and reality of post-lithium-ion batteries with high energy densities

Metal Oxides and Oxysalts as Anode Materials for Li Ion Batteries

With the increasing demand for efficient and economic energy storage, Li-S batteries have become attractive candidates for the next-generation high-energy rechargeable Li batteries because of their high theoretical energy density and cost effectiveness. Starting from a brief history of Li-S batteries, this Review introduces the electrochemistry of Li-S batteries, and discusses issues resulting from the electrochemistry, such as the electroactivity and the polysulfide dissolution. To address these critical issues, recent advances in Li-S batteries are summarized, including the S cathode, Li anode, electrolyte, and new designs of Li-S batteries with a metallic Li-free anode. Constructing S molecules confined in the conductive microporous carbon materials to improve the cyclability of Li-S batteries serves as a prospective strategy for the industry in the future.

Lithium–Sulfur Batteries: Electrochemistry, Materials, and Prospects

Recent developments in cathode materials for lithium ion batteries

High energy-density lithium-ion batteries are in demand for portable electronic devices and electrical vehicles. Since the energy density of the batteries relies heavily on the cathode material used, major research efforts have been made to develop alternative cathode materials with a higher degree of lithium utilization and specific energy density. In particular, layered, Ni-rich, lithium transition-metal oxides can deliver higher capacity at lower cost than the conventional LiCoO2 . However, for these Ni-rich compounds there are still several problems associated with their cycle life, thermal stability, and safety. Herein the performance enhancement of Ni-rich cathode materials through structure tuning or interface engineering is summarized. The underlying mechanisms and remaining challenges will also be discussed.

Nickel‐Rich Layered Lithium Transition‐Metal Oxide for High‐Energy Lithium‐Ion Batteries

Aromatic Carbonyl Derivative Polymers as High-Performance Li-Ion Storage Materials†

A new coordination polymer based on an aromatic carbonyl ligand is prepared and investigated as a positive active material for lithium ion batteries, namely, [Li2(C6H2O4)] (1). It is synthesized by the dehydration of [Li2(C6H2O4)·2H2O] (2). These compounds are characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), elemental analysis (EA), single crystal X-ray diffraction methods and powder X-ray diffraction (XRD). As positive material, compound 1 has an initial discharge capacity of 176 mAh·g−1 and a columbic efficiency of 93.18% in the first cycle. It might provide a new method for finding new positive-electrode materials in lithium ion batteries.

Caixian Chang

Papers

Aromatic Carbonyl Derivative Polymers as High-Performance Li-Ion Storage Materials†

A Novel Coordination Polymer as Positive Electrode Material for Lithium Ion Battery

Hydrothermal synthesis of carbon-coated lithium vanadium phosphate

Rheological phase reaction synthesis and electrochemical performance of Li3V2(PO4)3/carbon cathode for lithium ion batteries

A simple and effective strategy to synthesize Al2O3-coated LiNi0.8Co0.2O2 cathode materials for lithium ion battery