Strategies and Perspectives on Enhancing Energy Density in Lithium-Ion Batteries

The rapidly growing demand for clean energy transportation and storage systems emphasizes the need for the development of large-scale lithium-ion batteries. Achieving this goal requires a comprehensive approach that considers not only technical aspects but also social, environmental, and economic perspectives. Specifically, the next-generation batteries should exhibit high energy and power densities, long-term cycle stability, and the efficient utilization of low-cost, abundant raw materials. The cathode material is the key determinant of these requirements. This presentation will introduce progress and strategies for enhancing cathode materials and their corresponding cell performances. These strategies include goals to enable reversible redox reaction processes through elemental and compositional choices, as well as crystal structural variations ranging from order to disorder. Furthermore, we combine these with advanced characterization techniques to understand the correlation between material properties and electrochemical behavior at multiple length and depth scales. The discussion also delves into a deeper understanding of the fundamental mechanisms of performance, coupled with advancements in new materials. Overall, the presentation aims to provide valuable insights into the strategy for developing the next generation of lithium-ion batteries.