Metal chloride cathodes for next-generation rechargeable lithium batteries

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Energy Storage

Background:

• Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) predominantly use metal oxide cathodes, facing limitations in energy density.
• Metal chlorides are emerging as a promising alternative cathode material family for advanced batteries.
• Key challenges for metal chlorides include high solubility and limited utilization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the potential of metal chlorides in the post-lithium-ion battery era.
• To summarize the dissolution challenges associated with metal chloride cathodes.
• To discuss recent advancements and future research directions for metal chlorides.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on metal chlorides as cathode materials.
• Analysis of electrolyte engineering strategies (liquid and solid-state).
• Examination of LiCl-based cathode advancements and conversion reactions.

Main Results:

• Metal chlorides exhibit advantageous properties like high energy density and good compressibility.
• Electrolyte engineering and solid-state electrolytes (SSEs) show promise in mitigating dissolution.
• Advancements in electrode fabrication and conversion reaction understanding are crucial.

Conclusions:

• Metal chlorides represent a viable pathway for next-generation batteries beyond current lithium-ion technology.
• Overcoming solubility issues through advanced electrolytes and electrode design is critical for practical application.
• Further research into SSEs and conversion mechanisms will accelerate the development of high-performance metal chloride batteries.