Future Batteries: An Analysis of Electrodes and Electrolyte Advancements in High Energy Density Battery Systems

Abstract:
This study investigates the main attributes that influence the overall performance of the battery from four future high energy density candidate batteries. Zn-air, Li-O2, Li-S, and Al-air are the experimental targets that are expected to be the next-generation batteries that can be used for electric transportation. Previous studies have examined each battery individually of the most optimal electrode structure, as well as the electrolyte composition for the promotion of higher performance. However, comprehensive and comparative research about what kind of inner structure attributes benefit the battery the most is lacking. To address this gap, this study first adopted a quantitative analysis of candidate batteries’ mechanisms and performance data analysis. Then, every batteries’ electrolyte selection and microstructure were examined and compared. After the comparison, Li-O2 is found to be the most promising battery among them. To maximined the energy density, prolong the life span, and guarantee the reliability, a high diffusion rate, and porosity structure is required. Nevertheless, oxide membrane formation on the surface of the electrodes and electrolyte deformation should be maximumly limited via electrolyte modification by introducing favorable additives.