Nucleophilic deposition behavior of metal anodes

Nucleophilic materials play important roles in the deposition behavior of high-energy-density metal batteries (Li, Na, K, Zn, and Ca), while the principle and determination method of nucleophilicity are lacking. In this review, we summarize the metal extraction/deposition process to find out the mechanism of nucleophilic deposition behavior. The key points of the most critical nucleophilic behavior were found by combining the potential change, thermodynamic analysis, and active metal deposition behavior. On this basis, the inductivity and affinity of the material have been determined by Gibbs free energy directly. Thus, the inducibility of most materials has been classified: (a) induced nuclei can reduce the overpotential of active metals; (b) not all materials can induce active metal deposition; (c) the induced reaction is not changeless. Based on these results, the influencing factors (temperature, mass, phase state, induced reaction product, and alloying reactions) were also taken into account during the choice of inducers for active metal deposition. Finally, the critical issues, challenges, and perspectives for further development of high-utilization metal electrodes were considered comprehensively.