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    Addressing Transport Issues in Non-Aqueous Li–air Batteries to Achieving High Electrochemical Performance
    Zhuojun Zhang, Xu Xiao, Xingbao Zhu, Peng Tan
    Electrochemical Energy Reviews    2023, 6 (2): 18-.   DOI: 10.1007/s41918-022-00157-3
    Abstract104)      PDF       Save
    Li–air batteries are a promising type of energy storage technology because of the ultra-high theoretical specific energy. Great advances are made in recent years, including the illustration of reaction mechanisms, development of effective catalyst materials, and design of battery structures accelerating species transport. However, the application still suffers from low rate capability, poor round-trip efficiency, and unsatisfactory cycling life. Herein, we mainly focus on the species transport issues of non-aqueous Li–air batteries, including Li+ across the solid surfaces and the electrolyte, O2 solubility and diffusivity, distribution of intermediates and products, and side reactions by other components from the air. Besides, considerable emphasis is paid to expound the approaches for enhancing species transport and accelerating reactions, among which the realization of well-designed electrode structures and flowing electrolytes is of great significance for the rapid migration of O2 and Li+ and mitigating the negative effects by solid insoluble Li2O2. Moreover, optimizing reaction interfaces and operating conditions is an attractive alternative to promote reaction rates. This work aims to identify the mechanism of transport issues and corresponding challenges and perspectives, guiding the structure design and material selection to achieve high-performance Li–air batteries.
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    Overcoming the Electrode Challenges of High-Temperature Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells
    Quentin Meyer, Chujie Yang, Yi Cheng, Chuan Zhao
    Electrochemical Energy Reviews    2023, 6 (2): 16-.   DOI: 10.1007/s41918-023-00180-y
    Abstract721)      PDF       Save
    Proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) are becoming a major part of a greener and more sustainable future. However, the costs of high-purity hydrogen and noble metal catalysts alongside the complexity of the PEMFC system severely hamper their commercialization. Operating PEMFCs at high temperatures (HT-PEMFCs, above 120 °C) brings several advantages, such as increased tolerance to contaminants, more affordable catalysts, and operations without liquid water, hence considerably simplifying the system. While recent progresses in proton exchange membranes for HT-PEMFCs have made this technology more viable, the HT-PEMFC viscous acid electrolyte lowers the active site utilization by unevenly diffusing into the catalyst layer while it acutely poisons the catalytic sites. In recent years, the synthesis of platinum group metal (PGM) and PGM-free catalysts with higher acid tolerance and phosphate-promoted oxygen reduction reaction, in conjunction with the design of catalyst layers with improved acid distribution and more triple-phase boundaries, has provided great opportunities for more efficient HT-PEMFCs. The progress in these two interconnected fields is reviewed here, with recommendations for the most promising routes worthy of further investigation. Using these approaches, the performance and durability of HT-PEMFCs will be significantly improved.
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    Recent Advancements in Photoelectrochemical Water Splitting for Hydrogen Production
    Yibo Zhao, Zhenjie Niu, Jiwu Zhao, Lan Xue, Xianzhi Fu, Jinlin Long
    Electrochemical Energy Reviews    2023, 6 (2): 14-.   DOI: 10.1007/s41918-022-00153-7
    Abstract748)      PDF       Save
    Sunlight is the most abundant and inexhaustible energy source on earth. However, its low energy density, dispersibility and intermittent nature make its direct utilization with industrial relevance challenging, suggesting that converting sunlight into chemical energy and storing it is a valuable measure to achieve global sustainable development. Carbon–neutral, clean and secondary pollution-free solar-driven water splitting to produce hydrogen is one of the most attractive avenues among all the current options and is expected to realize the transformation from dependence on fossil fuels to zero-pollution hydrogen. Artificial photosynthetic systems (APSs) based on photoelectrochemical (PEC) devices appear to be an ideal avenue to efficiently achieve solar-to-hydrogen conversion. In this review, we comprehensively highlight the recent developments in photocathodes, including architectures, semiconductor photoabsorbers and performance optimization strategies. In particular, frontier research cases of organic semiconductors, dye sensitization and surface grafted molecular catalysts applied to APSs based on frontier (molecular) orbital theory and semiconductor energy band theory are discussed. Moreover, research advances in typical photoelectrodes with the metal–insulator–semiconductor (MIS) architecture based on quantum tunnelling are also introduced. Finally, we discuss the benchmarks and protocols for designing integrated tandem photoelectrodes and PEC systems that conform to the solar spectrum to achieve high-efficiency and cost-effective solar-to-hydrogen conversion at an industrial scale in the near future.
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    High-Energy Room-Temperature Sodium-Sulfur and Sodium-Selenium Batteries for Sustainable Energy Storage
    Zefu Huang, Pauline Jaumaux, Bing Sun, Xin Guo, Dong Zhou, Devaraj Shanmukaraj, Michel Armand, Teofilo Rojo, Guoxiu Wang
    Electrochemical Energy Reviews    2023, 6 (3): 21-.   DOI: 10.1007/s41918-023-00182-w
    Abstract111)      PDF       Save
    Rechargeable room-temperature sodium-sulfur (Na-S) and sodium-selenium (Na-Se) batteries are gaining extensive attention for potential large-scale energy storage applications owing to their low cost and high theoretical energy density. Optimization of electrode materials and investigation of mechanisms are essential to achieve high energy density and long-term cycling stability of Na-S(Se) batteries. Herein, we provide a comprehensive review of the recent progress in Na-S(Se) batteries. We elucidate the Na storage mechanisms and improvement strategies for battery performance. In particular, we discuss the advances in the development of battery components, including high-performance sulfur cathodes, optimized electrolytes, advanced Na metal anodes and modified separators. Combined with current research achievements, this review outlines remaining challenges and clear research directions for the future development of practical high-performance Na-S(Se) batteries.
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    Structure, Property, and Performance of Catalyst Layers in Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells
    Jian Zhao, Huiyuan Liu, Xianguo Li
    Electrochemical Energy Reviews    2023, 6 (2): 13-.   DOI: 10.1007/s41918-022-00175-1
    Abstract717)      PDF       Save
    Catalyst layer (CL) is the core component of proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells, which determines the performance, durability, and cost. However, difficulties remain for a thorough understanding of the CLs’ inhomogeneous structure, and its impact on the physicochemical and electrochemical properties, operating performance, and durability. The inhomogeneous structure of the CLs is formed during the manufacturing process, which is sensitive to the associated materials, composition, fabrication methods, procedures, and conditions. The state-of-the-art visualization and characterization techniques are crucial to examine the CL structure. The structure-dependent physicochemical and electrochemical properties are then thoroughly scrutinized in terms of fundamental concepts, theories, and recent progress in advanced experimental techniques. The relation between the CL structure and the associated effective properties is also examined based on experimental and theoretical findings. Recent studies indicated that the CL inhomogeneous structure also strongly affects the performance and degradation of the whole fuel cell, and thus, the interconnection between the fuel cell performance, failure modes, and CL structure is comprehensively reviewed. An analytical model is established to understand the effect of the CL structure on the effective properties, performance, and durability of the PEM fuel cells. Finally, the challenges and prospects of the CL structure-associated studies are highlighted for the development of high-performing PEM fuel cells.
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    Leap of Li Metal Anodes from Coin Cells to Pouch Cells: Challenges and Progress
    Qian Wang, Tiantian Lu, Yuanbin Xiao, Jianyang Wu, Lixiang Guan, Lifeng Hou, Huayun Du, Huan Wei, Xiaoda Liu, Chengkai Yang, Yinghui Wei, Henghui Zhou, Yan Yu
    Electrochemical Energy Reviews    2023, 6 (3): 22-.   DOI: 10.1007/s41918-023-00185-7
    Abstract109)      PDF       Save
    Li metal anodes have attracted tremendous attention in the last decade because of their high theoretical capacities and low electrochemical potentials. However, until now, there has only been limited success in improving the interfacial and structural stabilities and in realizing the highly controllable and large-scale fabrication of this emerging material; these limitations have posed great obstacles to further performing fundamental and applied studies in Li metal anodes. In this review, we focus on summarizing the existing challenges of Li metal anodes based on the leap from coin cells to pouch cells and on outlining typical methods for designing Li metal anodes on demand; we controllably engineer their surface protection layers and structure sizes by encapsulating structured Li metal inside a variety of synthetic protection layers. We aim to provide a comprehensive understanding and serve as a strategic guide for designing and fabricating practicable Li metal anodes for use in pouch batteries. Challenges and opportunities regarding this burgeoning field are critically evaluated at the end of this review.Li metal anode has attracted tremendous attention in the last decade because of its high theoretical capacity and low electrochemical potential. However, till now, there is only limited success in improving its interface stability and structure stability, as well as realizing the highly controllable and large-scaled fabrication of this emerging material, posing great obstacles to further promoting its fundamental and applied studies. In this review, we focus on summarizing the existing challenges of Li metal anode based on the leap from coin cells to pouch cells and outlining the typical solutions for designing Li metal anode on-demand through controllably engineering its surface protection layer and structure size, which trend is encapsulating structured Li metal inside a variety of synthetic protection layer. We aim to provide a comprehensive understanding and serve as a strategic guidance for designing and fabricating practicable Li metal anode using in pouch batteries. Challenges and opportunities regarding this burgeoning field are also critically evaluated at the end of this review.
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    Interfaces in Sulfide Solid Electrolyte-Based All-Solid-State Lithium Batteries: Characterization, Mechanism and Strategy
    Zhan Wu, Xiaohan Li, Chao Zheng, Zheng Fan, Wenkui Zhang, Hui Huang, Yongping Gan, Yang Xia, Xinping He, Xinyong Tao, Jun Zhang
    Electrochemical Energy Reviews    2023, 6 (2): 10-.   DOI: 10.1007/s41918-022-00176-0
    Abstract768)      PDF       Save
    Owing to the advantages of high energy density and environmental friendliness, lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have been widely used as power sources in electric vehicles, energy storage systems and other devices. Conventional LIBs composed of liquid electrolytes (LEs) have potential safety hazards; thermal runaway easily leads to battery explosion and spontaneous combustion. To realize a large-scale energy storage system with higher safety and higher energy density, replacing LEs with solid-state electrolytes (SSEs) has been pursued. Among the many SSEs, sulfide SSEs are attractive because of their high ionic conductivities, easy processabilities and high thermostabilities. However, interfacial issues (interfacial reactions, chemomechanical failure, lithium dendrite formation, etc.) between sulfide SSEs and electrodes are factors limiting widespread application. In addition, the intrinsic interfacial issues of sulfide SSEs (electrochemical windows, diffusion mechanisms of Li+, etc.) should not be ignored. In this review, the behaviors, properties and mechanisms of interfaces in all-solid-state lithium batteries with a variety of sulfide SSEs are comprehensively summarized. Additionally, recent research progress on advanced characterization methods and designs used to stabilize interfaces is discussed. Finally, outlooks, challenges and possible interface engineering strategies are analyzed and proposed.
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    Li-S Batteries: Challenges, Achievements and Opportunities
    Hassan Raza, Songyan Bai, Junye Cheng, Soumyadip Majumder, He Zhu, Qi Liu, Guangping Zheng, Xifei Li, Guohua Chen
    Electrochemical Energy Reviews    2023, 6 (3): 29-.   DOI: 10.1007/s41918-023-00188-4
    Abstract235)      PDF       Save
    To realize a low-carbon economy and sustainable energy supply, the development of energy storage devices has aroused intensive attention. Lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries are regarded as one of the most promising next-generation battery devices because of their remarkable theoretical energy density, cost-effectiveness, and environmental benignity. However, the practical application of Li-S batteries is hindered by such challenges as low sulfur utilization (< 80%), fast capacity fade, short service life (< 200 redox cycles), and severe self-discharge. The reasons behind the challenges are: (1) low conductivity of the active materials, (2) large volume changes during redox cycling, (3) serious polysulfide shuttling and, (4) lithium-metal anode contamination/corrosion and dendrite formation. Significant achievements have been made to address these problems in the past decade. In this review, the recent advances in material synthesis and technology development are analysed in terms of the electrochemical performance of different Li-S battery components. The critical analysis was conducted based on the merits and shortcomings of the reported work on the issues facing the individual component. A versatile 3D-printing technique is also examined on its practicability for Li-S battery production. The insights on the rational structural design and reasonable parameters for Li-S batteries are highlighted along with the “five 5s” concept from a practical point of view. The remaining challenges are outlined for researchers to devote more efforts on the understanding and commercialization of the devices in terms of the material preparation, cell manufacturing, and characterization.
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    Carbon-Based Electrodes for Advanced Zinc-Air Batteries: Oxygen-Catalytic Site Regulation and Nanostructure Design
    Wenjie Shao, Rui Yan, Mi Zhou, Lang Ma, Christina Roth, Tian Ma, Sujiao Cao, Chong Cheng, Bo Yin, Shuang Li
    Electrochemical Energy Reviews    2023, 6 (2): 11-.   DOI: 10.1007/s41918-023-00181-x
    Abstract712)      PDF       Save
    Zn-air batteries are highly attractive for direct chemical-to-electrical energy conversion and for solving the energy crisis and environmental problems. Designing efficient oxygen electrodes has been considered one of the most critical steps in the development of advanced Zn-air batteries because of the sluggish kinetics of the oxygen reduction reaction and the oxygen evolution reaction. In recent years, nanostructured carbon-based electrodes with large surface areas, efficient oxygen-catalytic centers, and hierarchically porous matrices have provided significant opportunities to optimize the performance of the oxygen electrodes in both primary and rechargeable Zn-air batteries. In this review, we provide a comprehensive summary of the reported nanostructured carbon-based electrodes for advanced Zn-air batteries in terms of tailoring the oxygen-catalytic sites and designing carbon supports. The versatile synthetic strategies, characterization methods, and in-depth understanding of the relationships between the oxygen-catalytic sites/nanostructures and the oxygen electrode performance are systematically summarized. Furthermore, we also briefly outline recent progress in engineering flexible and high-power Zn-air batteries. Ultimately, a thorough discussion of current primary challenges and future perspectives on the rational design of nanostructured carbon-based oxygen electrodes is given, thus providing inspiration for the future prosperity of fast-kinetic and efficient Zn-air batteries in a broad range of energy fields.
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    Application of Solid Catalysts with an Ionic Liquid Layer (SCILL) in PEMFCs: From Half-Cell to Full-Cell
    Xiaojing Cheng, Guanghua Wei, Liuxuan Luo, Jiewei Yin, Shuiyun Shen, Junliang Zhang
    Electrochemical Energy Reviews    2023, 6 (4): 33-.   DOI: 10.1007/s41918-023-00195-5
    Abstract82)      PDF       Save
    The advantages of zero emission and high energy efficiency make proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) promising options for future energy conversion devices. To address the cost issue associated with Pt-based electrocatalysts, considerable effort over the past several years has been devoted to catalyst surface modification by means of novel electrocatalysts, such as solid catalysts with an ionic liquid layer (SCILL), which improves both the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activity and durability. However, despite numerous reports of dramatically enhanced ORR activity, as determined via the rotating disk electrode (RDE) method, few studies on the application of SCILLs in membrane electrode assembly (MEA) have been reported. The underlying reason lies in the well-acknowledged technological gap between half-cells and full-cells, which originates from the disparate microenvironments for three phase boundaries. Therefore, the objective of this review is to compare the detailed information about improvements in fuel cell performance in both half- and full-cells, thus increasing the fundamental understanding of the mechanism of SCILL. In this review, the concept of SCILL and its origin are introduced, the outstanding electrochemical performance of SCILL catalysts in both RDE and MEA measurements is summarized, and the durability of SCILL catalysts is analysed. Subsequently, proposed mechanisms for the enhanced ORR activity in half-cells, the improved oxygen transport in full-cells and the boosted stability of SCILL catalysts are discussed, while the effects of the IL chemical structure, IL loading as well as the operating conditions on the performance and lifetime of SCILL catalysts are assessed. Finally, comprehensive conclusions are presented, and perspectives are proposed in the last section. It is believed that the new insight presented in this review could provide guidance for the further development of SCILLs in low-Pt PEMFCs.
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    Electrospun Flexible Nanofibres for Batteries: Design and Application
    P. Robert Ilango, A. Dennyson Savariraj, Hongjiao Huang, Linlin Li, Guangzhi Hu, Huaisheng Wang, Xiaodong Hou, Byung Chul Kim, Seeram Ramakrishna, Shengjie Peng
    Electrochemical Energy Reviews    2023, 6 (4): 31-.   DOI: 10.1007/s41918-022-00148-4
    Abstract78)      PDF       Save
    Flexible and free-standing electrospun nanofibres have been used as electrode materials in electrochemical energy storage systems due to their versatile properties, such as mechanical stability, superb electrical conductivity, and high functionality. In energy storage systems such as metal-ion, metal-air, and metal-sulphur batteries, electrospun nanofibres are vital for constructing flexible electrodes and substantially enhancing their electrochemical properties. The need for flexible batteries has increased with increasing demand for new products such as wearable and flexible devices, including smartwatches and flexible displays. Conventional batteries have several semirigid to rigid components that limit their expansion in the flexible device market. The creation of flexible and wearable batteries with greater mechanical flexibility, higher energy, and substantial power density is critical in meeting the demand for these new electronic items. The implementation of carbon and carbon-derived composites into flexible electrodes is required to realize this goal. It is essential to understand recent advances and the comprehensive foundation behind the synthesis and assembly of various flexible electrospun nanofibres. The design of nanofibres, including those comprising carbon, N-doped carbon, hierarchical, porous carbon, and metal/metal oxide carbon composites, will be explored. We will highlight the merits of electrospun carbon flexible electrodes by describing porosity, surface area, binder-free and free-standing electrode construction, cycling stability, and performance rate. Significant scientific progress has been achieved and logistical challenges have been met in promoting secondary battery usage; therefore, this review of flexible electrode materials will advance this easily used and sought-after technology. The challenges and prospects involved in the timely development of carbon nanofibre composite flexible electrodes and batteries will be addressed.
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    Recent Advances on PEM Fuel Cells: From Key Materials to Membrane Electrode Assembly
    Shanyun Mo, Lei Du, Zhiyin Huang, Junda Chen, Yangdong Zhou, Puwei Wu, Ling Meng, Ning Wang, Lixin Xing, Mingquan Zhao, Yunsong Yang, Junke Tang, Yuquan Zou, Siyu Ye
    Electrochemical Energy Reviews    2023, 6 (3): 28-.   DOI: 10.1007/s41918-023-00190-w
    Abstract118)      PDF       Save
    In recent years, proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells have regained worldwide attention from academia, industries, investors, and governments. The prospect of PEM fuel cells has turned into reality, with fuel cell vehicles successfully launched in the market. However, today’s fuel cells remain less competitive than combustion engines and batteries, primarily due to their high cost and short lifetime, which are significantly affected by the membrane electrode assembly (MEA), or the “chips” of PEM fuel cells. Therefore, many efforts have been devoted to developing advanced materials and manufacturing processes for MEAs. In this paper, we critically review the recent progress of key materials for MEAs, focusing on how to integrate materials into electrodes and MEAs. We also present the most advanced designs and manufacturing techniques of MEAs and discuss their possible constraints. Finally, perspectives on future R&D directions of materials and MEAs are provided. This review aims to bridge the gaps between academic material research and industrial manufacturing process development.
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    Recent Progress in and Perspectives on Emerging Halide Superionic Conductors for All-Solid-State Batteries
    Kaiyong Tuo, Chunwen Sun, Shuqin Liu
    Electrochemical Energy Reviews    2023, 6 (2): 17-.   DOI: 10.1007/s41918-023-00179-5
    Abstract154)      PDF       Save
    Rechargeable all-solid-state batteries (ASSBs) are considered to be the next generation of devices for electrochemical energy storage. The development of solid-state electrolytes (SSEs) is one of the most crucial subjects in the field of energy storage chemistry. The newly emerging halide SSEs have recently been intensively studied for application in ASSBs due to their favorable combination of high ionic conductivity, exceptional chemical and electrochemical stability, and superior mechanical deformability. In this review, a critical overview of the development, synthesis, chemical stability and remaining challenges of halide SSEs is given. The design strategies for optimizing the ionic conductivity of halide SSEs, such as element substitution and crystal structure design, are summarized in detail. Moreover, the associated chemical stability issues in terms of solvent compatibility, humid air stability and corresponding degradation mechanisms are discussed. In particular, advanced in situ/operando characterization techniques applied to halide-based ASSBs are highlighted. In addition, a comprehensive understanding of the interface issues, cost issues, and scalable processing challenges faced by halide-based ASSBs for practical application is provided. Finally, future perspectives on how to design high-performance electrode/electrolyte materials are given, which are instructive for guiding the development of halide-based ASSBs for energy conversion and storage.
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    Ion Migration Mechanism Study of Hydroborate/Carborate Electrolytes for All-Solid-State Batteries
    Huixiang Liu, Xian Zhou, Mingxin Ye, Jianfeng Shen
    Electrochemical Energy Reviews    2023, 6 (4): 32-.   DOI: 10.1007/s41918-023-00191-9
    Abstract59)      PDF       Save
    Hydroborate/carborate electrolytes represent an emerging and newly rediscovered solid electrolyte used in various all-solid-state batteries (such as lithium-ion batteries and sodium-ion batteries). High ionic conductivity, wide chemical/electrochemical stability, low density, and favorable mechanical properties make hydroborate/carborate electrolytes a promising candidate for solving the difficult challenges faced by the device integration and processing of all-solid-state batteries. It is remarkable that the ionic conductivity of solid electrolytes can be simply adjusted up to 10?3 S cm?1, and the optimized ionic conductivity can even reach 10?2 S cm?1. Furthermore, hydroborate/carborate electrolytes have been successfully formed and applied to?~?5 V high-voltage solid-state batteries. However, due to certain characteristics of hydroborate/carborate electrolytes, such as anion rotation and phase transition, it is challenging to understand the mechanism of their high ionic conductivity. Therefore, in this review, we summarized the latest research progress on hydroborate/carborate electrolytes, highlighted various mechanisms underlying the conductivity, described emerging characterization techniques and theoretical calculations, and listed general guidelines to unravel the high conductivity of hydroborate/carborate compounds. Novel strategies and suggestions on hydroborate/carborate work are also proposed. Following emerging research trends, we project promising future development toward the realization of hydroborate/carborate electrolytes in practical applications.
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    Printed Solid-State Batteries
    Shiqiang Zhou, Mengrui Li, Peike Wang, Lukuan Cheng, Lina Chen, Yan Huang, Suzhu Yu, Funian Mo, Jun Wei
    Electrochemical Energy Reviews    2023, 6 (4): 35-.   DOI: 10.1007/s41918-023-00200-x
    Abstract64)      PDF       Save
    Solid-state batteries (SSBs) possess the advantages of high safety, high energy density and long cycle life, which hold great promise for future energy storage systems. The advent of printed electronics has transformed the paradigm of battery manufacturing as it offers a range of accessible, versatile, cost-effective, time-saving and ecoefficiency manufacturing techniques for batteries with outstanding microscopic size and aesthetic diversity. In this review, the state-of-the-art technologies and structural characteristics of printed SSBs have been comprehensively summarized and discussed, with a focus on the cutting-edge printing processes. Representative materials for fabricating printed electrodes and solid-state electrolytes (SSEs) have been systematically outlined, and performance optimization methods of printed SSBs through material modification have been discussed. Furthermore, this article highlights the design principles and adjustment strategies of printing processes of advanced SSB devices to realize high performance. Finally, the persistent challenges and potential opportunities are also highlighted and discussed, aiming to enlighten the future research for mass production of printed SSBs.
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    Review on Low-Temperature Electrolytes for Lithium-Ion and Lithium Metal Batteries
    Sha Tan, Zulipiya Shadike, Xinyin Cai, Ruoqian Lin, Atsu Kludze, Oleg Borodin, Brett L. Lucht, Chunsheng Wang, Enyuan Hu, Kang Xu, Xiao-Qing Yang
    Electrochemical Energy Reviews    2023, 6 (4): 36-.   DOI: 10.1007/s41918-023-00199-1
    Abstract60)      PDF       Save
    Among various rechargeable batteries, the lithium-ion battery (LIB) stands out due to its high energy density, long cycling life, in addition to other outstanding properties. However, the capacity of LIB drops dramatically at low temperatures (LTs) below 0 °C, thus restricting its applications as a reliable power source for electric vehicles in cold climates and equipment used in the aerospace. The electrolyte engineering has proved to be one of the most effective approaches to mitigate LIB performance degradation at LTs. In this review, we summarize the important factors contributing to the deterioration in Li+ transport and capacity utilization at LTs while systematically categorize the solvents, salts and additives reported in the literature. Strategies to improve the Li+ transport kinetics, in the bulk electrolyte and across the interphases, are discussed. In particular, the formation mechanism of solid electrolyte interphase and its functionality for LT electrolytes are analyzed. Perspectives on the future evolution of this area are also provided.
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    Recent Advances in High-Efficiency Electrocatalytic Water Splitting Systems
    Xian-Wei Lv, Wen-Wen Tian, Zhong-Yong Yuan
    Electrochemical Energy Reviews    2023, 6 (3): 23-.   DOI: 10.1007/s41918-022-00159-1
    Abstract155)      PDF       Save
    Electrocatalytic water splitting driven by renewable energy input to produce clean hydrogen (H2) has been widely considered a prospective approach for a future hydrogen-based society. However, the development of industrial alkaline water electrolyzers is hindered due to their unfavorable thermodynamics with high overpotential for delivering the whole process, caused by sluggish kinetics involving four-electron transfer. Further exploration of water electrolysis with low energy consumption and high efficiency is urgently required to meet the ever-growing energy storage and portfolio demands. This review emphasizes the strategies proposed thus far to pursue high-efficiency water electrolysis systems, including from the aspects of electrocatalysts (from monofunctional to bifunctional), electrode engineering (from powdery to self-supported), energy sources (from nonrenewable to renewable), electrolytes (from pure to hybrid), and cell configurations (from integrated to decoupled). Critical appraisals of the pivotal electrochemistry are highlighted to address the challenges in elevating the overall efficiency of water splitting. Finally, valuable insights for the future development directions and bottlenecks of advanced, sustainable, and high-efficiency water splitting systems are outlined.
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    Interfacial Modification, Electrode/Solid-Electrolyte Engineering, and Monolithic Construction of Solid-State Batteries
    Qirong Liu, Qiqi Chen, Yongbing Tang, Hui-Ming Cheng
    Electrochemical Energy Reviews    2023, 6 (2): 15-.   DOI: 10.1007/s41918-022-00167-1
    Abstract696)      PDF       Save
    Solid-state lithium-metal batteries (SLMBs) have been regarded as one of the most promising next-generation devices because of their potential high safety, high energy density, and simple packing procedure. However, the practical applications of SLMBs are restricted by a series of static and dynamic interfacial issues, including poor interfacial contact, (electro-)chemical incompatibility, dynamic Li dendrite penetration, etc. In recent years, considerable attempts have been made to obtain mechanistic insight into interfacial failures and to develop possible strategies towards excellent interfacial properties for SLMBs. The static and dynamic failure mechanisms at interfaces between solid electrolytes (SEs) and electrodes are comprehensively summarized, and design strategies involving interfacial modification, electrode/SE engineering, and the monolithic construction of SLMBs are discussed in detail. Finally, possible research methodologies such as theoretical calculations, advanced characterization techniques, and versatile design strategies are provided to tackle these interfacial problems.
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    Direct Alcohol Fuel Cells: A Comparative Review of Acidic and Alkaline Systems
    Enrico Berretti, Luigi Osmieri, Vincenzo Baglio, Hamish A. Miller, Jonathan Filippi, Francesco Vizza, Monica Santamaria, Stefania Specchia, Carlo Santoro, Alessandro Lavacchi
    Electrochemical Energy Reviews    2023, 6 (3): 30-.   DOI: 10.1007/s41918-023-00189-3
    Abstract97)      PDF       Save
    In the last 20 years, direct alcohol fuel cells (DAFCs) have been the subject of tremendous research efforts for the potential application as on-demand power sources. Two leading technologies respectively based on proton exchange membranes (PEMs) and anion exchange membranes (AEMs) have emerged: the first one operating in an acidic environment and conducting protons; the second one operating in alkaline electrolytes and conducting hydroxyl ions. In this review, we present an analysis of the state-of-the-art acidic and alkaline DAFCs fed with methanol and ethanol with the purpose to support a comparative analysis of acidic and alkaline systems, which is missing in the current literature. A special focus is placed on the effect of the reaction stoichiometry in acidic and alkaline systems. Particularly, we point out that, in alkaline systems, OH- participates stoichiometrically to reactions, and that alcohol oxidation products are anions. This aspect must be considered when designing the fuel and when making an energy evaluation from a whole system perspective.
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    On Energy Storage Chemistry of Aqueous Zn-Ion Batteries: From Cathode to Anode
    Xiujuan Chen, Wei Li, David Reed, Xiaolin Li, Xingbo Liu
    Electrochemical Energy Reviews    2023, 6 (4): 34-.   DOI: 10.1007/s41918-023-00194-6
    Abstract75)      PDF       Save
    Rechargeable aqueous zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs) have resurged in large-scale energy storage applications due to their intrinsic safety, affordability, competitive electrochemical performance, and environmental friendliness. Extensive efforts have been devoted to exploring high-performance cathodes and stable anodes. However, many fundamental issues still hinder the development of aqueous ZIBs. Here, we critically review and assess the energy storage chemistries of aqueous ZIBs for both cathodes and anodes. First, this review presents a comprehensive understanding of the cathode charge storage chemistry, probes the existing deficiencies in mechanism verification, and analyzes contradictions between the experimental results and proposed mechanisms. Then, a detailed summary of the representative cathode materials and corresponding comparative discussion is provided with typical cases encompassing structural features, electrochemical properties, existing drawbacks, and feasible remedies. Subsequently, the fundamental chemical properties, remaining challenges, and improvement strategies of both Zn metal and non-Zn anodes are presented to thoroughly explore the energy storage chemistry of ZIBs and pursue the development of high-performance ZIBs. Furthermore, the progress of mechanistic characterization techniques and theoretical simulation methods used for ZIBs is timely reviewed. Finally, we provide our perspectives, critical analysis, and insights on the remaining challenges and future directions for development of aqueous ZIBs.
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