Currently, high-energy rechargeable batteries are being intensively pursued to meet the increasing energy requirements of our modern life and industrial society. Alkali metals are considered some of the most promising anodes for nextgeneration high-energy batteries because of their superior theoretical specific capacities and low reduction potentials. Here, we provide an overview of the recent development of alkali metal anodes. First, we highlight that their high reactivity, unstable solid electrolyte interphase, dendrite formation, and huge volume change bring great challenges for the safety and lifespan of alkalimetal-based batteries. Then, we summarize various advanced strategiesincluding the micro-and/or nanostructuring of alkali metals, introduction of stable hosts, structural modification of current collectors, construction of artificial anode-electrolyte interfaces, separator modification, and electrolyte optimization-to address these challenges. Lastly, we present the remaining challenges and possible research directions for further developments.

Alloying anodes are promising high-capacity electrode materials for K-ion batteries (KIBs). However,K IBs based on alloying anodes suffer from rapid capacity decay due to the instability of Km etal and large volume expansion of alloying anodes.Herein, the effects of salts and solvents on the cycling stability of KIBs based on atypical alloying anode such as amorphous red phosphorus (RP) are investigated, and the potassium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide (KFSI) salt-based carbonate electrolyte is versatile to achieve simultaneous stabilization of Kmetal and RP electrodes for highly stable KIBs.This saltsolvent complex with amoderate solvation energy can alleviate side reactions between Kmetal and the electrolyte and facilitate K + ion diffusion/desolvation. Moreover,robust SEI layers that form on Km etal and RP electrodes can suppress Kd endrite growth and resist RP volume change.T his strategy of electrolyte regulation can be applicable to other alloying anodes for high-performance KIBs.

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Currently, exploring high‐volumetric‐capacity electrode materials that allow for reversible (de‐)insertion of large‐size K+ ions remains challenging. Tellurium (Te) is a promising alternative electrode for storage of K+ ions due to its high volumetric capacity, confirmed in lithium‐/sodium‐ion batteries, and the intrinsic good electronic conductivity. However, the charge storage capability and mechanism of Te in potassium‐ion batteries (KIBs) have not been unveiled until now. Here, a novel K–Te battery is constructed, and the K+‐ion storage mechanism of Te is revealed to be a two‐electron conversion‐type reaction of 2K + Te ↔ K2Te, resulting in a high theoretical volumetric capacity of 2619 mAh cm−3. Consequently, the rationally fabricated tellurium/porous carbon electrodes deliver an ultrahigh reversible volumetric capacity of 2493.13 mAh cm−3 at 0.5 C (based on Te), a high‐rate capacity of 783.13 mAh cm−3 at 15 C, and superior long‐term cycling stability for 1000 cycles at 5 C. This excellent electrochemical performance proves the feasibility of utilizing Te as a high‐volumetric‐capacity active material for storage of K+ ions and will advance the practical application of KIBs.

Polyphenols are dietary constituents of plants associated with health-promoting effects. In the human diet, polyphenols are generally consumed in foods along with macronutrients. Because the health benefits of polyphenols are critically determined by their bioavailability, the effect of interactions between plant phenols and food macronutrients is a very important topic. In the present review, we summarise current knowledge, with a special focus on the in vitro and in vivo effects of food macronutrients on the bioavailability and bioactivity of polyphenols. The mechanisms of interactions between polyphenols and food macronutrients are also discussed. The evidence collected in the present review suggests that when plant phenols are consumed along with food macronutrients, the bioavailability and bioactivity of polyphenols can be significantly affected. The protein -polyphenol complexes can significantly change the plasma kinetics profile but do not affect the absorption of polyphenols. Carbohydrates can enhance the absorption and extend the time needed to reach a maximal plasma concentration of polyphenols, and fats can enhance the absorption and change the absorption kinetics of polyphenols. Moreover, as highlighted in the present review, not only a nutrient alone but also certain synergisms between food macronutrients have a significant effect on the bioavailability and biological activity of polyphenols. The review emphasises the need for formulations that optimise the bioavailability and in vivo activities of polyphenols.