Materials for aluminum batteries: Progress and challenges

Abstract

Aluminum battery technologies, including Al-air, Al-ion, and Al-sulfur (Al-S), are considered promising energy storage systems because of their high theoretical capacity, abundance of resources, low cost, and environmental friendliness. Despite these benefits, there are still some critical challenges such as the formation of passivation layers, anodic corrosion, poor electrochemical performance, the polysulfide shuttle effect, and unwanted side reactions occurring between the electrolyte and the metal anode. In order to tackle these challenges, various strategies have been explored, including Al-alloys and composites, advanced cathode materials, and electrolytes. In this review, we will provide a comprehensive overview of the development of various Al-batteries, beginning with anodes, cathodes, and electrolytes. We have divided Al-batteries into three primary categories: Al-air batteries, Al-ion batteries, and Al-S batteries. The categorization was carried out on the basis of the electrochemical reactions that take place on the cathode side during the charge–discharge process. Furthermore, we provide insights into the remaining technical challenges that need to be addressed in order to get this technology from laboratory concept to practical application.