A perspective on sustainable energy materials for lithium batteries

TLDR

Lithium‑ion batteries have powered portable electronics and electric vehicles, yet their sustainability is challenged by high raw‑material costs, safety risks, and other environmental concerns. This perspective reviews recent advances in lithium‑ion batteries for energy storage, aiming to clarify sustainable chemistry and emerging materials. It examines revolutionary chemistries—low‑cobalt cathodes, organic electrodes, aqueous electrolytes—alongside safety analyses and recycling technologies to enhance performance and sustainability. The authors conclude with an outlook that highlights pathways for advancing sustainable lithium‑ion batteries.

Abstract

Abstract Lithium ion battery has achieved great success in portable electronics and even recently electronic vehicles since its commercialization in 1990s. However, lithium‐ion batteries are confronted with several issues in terms of the sustainable development such as the high price of raw materials and electronic products, the emerging safety accidents, etc. The recent progresses are herein emphasized on lithium batteries for energy storage to clearly understand the sustainable energy chemistry and emerging energy materials. The Perspective presents novel lithium‐ion batteries developed with the aims of enhancing the electrochemical performance and sustainability of energy storage systems. First, revolutionary material chemistries, including novel low‐cobalt cathode, organic electrode, and aqueous electrolyte, are discussed . Then, the characteristics of safety performance are analyzed and strategies to enhance safety are subsequently evaluated. Battery recycling is considered as the key factor for a sustainable society and related technologies are present as well. Finally, conclusion and outlook are drawn to shed lights on the further development of sustainable lithium‐ion batteries.