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Perspective on Aqueous Batteries: Historical Milestones and Modern Revival
Fangwang Ming1,2, Dong Guo1,2, Yizhou Wang1,2
1Center for Renewable Energy and Storage Technologies (CREST), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal, Saudi Arabia.
Advanced Materials (Deerfield Beach, Fla.)
|February 4, 2026
Summary
Aqueous batteries are experiencing a resurgence due to advances in materials and electrolyte engineering, offering safe, low-cost, and sustainable energy storage solutions. They are poised to complement lithium-ion batteries in grid-scale and decentralized applications.
Area of Science:
- Electrochemistry
- Materials Science
- Energy Storage
Background:
- Aqueous batteries, including lead-acid and nickel-based systems, were historically significant but overshadowed by lithium-ion technology due to limitations in energy density and stability.
- Recent advancements in electrolyte engineering and electrode materials have overcome previous drawbacks, enabling improved performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the historical development and commercial trajectory of aqueous batteries.
- To highlight recent technological breakthroughs enabling enhanced performance and scalability.
- To redefine the role of aqueous batteries in the future energy storage landscape.
Main Methods:
- Historical analysis of commercialized aqueous battery technologies.
- Review of recent advancements in electrolyte and electrode materials.
- Assessment of current and future applications for aqueous battery systems.
Main Results:
- Aqueous batteries now exhibit extended voltage windows and improved cycling stability.
- Scalable manufacturing processes are becoming increasingly viable.
- Key breakthroughs have been made in electrolyte engineering and advanced electrode materials.
Conclusions:
- Aqueous batteries are not intended to replace lithium-ion batteries in high-energy applications but to complement them.
- Their future lies in grid-scale storage, uninterruptible power supplies, and decentralized systems where safety, cost, and recyclability are critical.
- These systems offer a sustainable and diversified approach to energy storage.
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