Review on Cathode Stabilization by Electrolyte Engineering in Aqueous Batteries

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Energy Storage

Background:

• Cathode material stability is critical for aqueous battery performance.
• Electrolyte-interface reactions significantly impact cathode degradation.
• Electrolyte engineering offers a direct solution for aqueous electrolyte interface issues.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review cathode fading mechanisms in various aqueous battery systems.
• To summarize advancements in electrolyte engineering for enhancing cathode stability.
• To identify future research directions for aqueous battery electrolyte design.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of cathode fading mechanisms.
• Analysis of electrolyte engineering strategies (bulk modification, additives, water-in-salt, hydrogels).
• Synthesis of current research progress and future outlook.

Main Results:

• Detailed summary of fading mechanisms for manganese/vanadium, chalcogen, halogen, Prussian blue analogue, and Ni(OH)2 cathodes.
• Overview of electrolyte modifications improving cathode stability.
• Identification of key challenges and opportunities in electrolyte design.

Conclusions:

• Electrolyte engineering is a vital strategy for stabilizing aqueous battery cathodes.
• Continued research into novel electrolytes is essential for high-performance aqueous batteries.
• Addressing interface chemistry is paramount for future electrolyte development.