The room temperature (RT) sodium–sulfur batteries (Na–S) hold great promise for practical applications including energy storage and conversion due to high energy density, long lifespan, and low cost, as well based on the abundant reserves of both sodium metal and sulfur. Herein, freestanding (C/S/BaTiO3)@TiO2 (CSB@TiO2) electrode with only ≈3 wt% of BaTiO3 additive and ≈4 nm thickness of amorphous TiO2 atomic layer deposition protective layer is rational designed, and first used for RT Na–S batteries. Results show that such cathode material exhibits high rate capability and excellent durability compared with pure C/S and C/S/BaTiO3 electrodes. Notably, this CSB@TiO2 electrode performs a discharge capacity of 524.8 and 382 mA h g−1 after 1400 cycles at 1 A g−1 and 3000 cycles at 2 A g−1, respectively. Such superior electrochemical performance is mainly attributed from the “BaTiO3‐C‐TiO2” synergetic structure within the matrix, which enables effectively inhibiting the shuttle effect, restraining the volumetric variation and stabilizing the ionic transport interface.
Owing
to the increasing pressure on the ecological effect of solid
waste disposal and developing the need for disposal of the corresponding
hazardous metals, recovery of spent lithium ion batteries (LIBs) has
gain worldwide attention in recent years. Much work has been done
in this regard in the past few decades, and several new, interesting,
and unique methods have been developed to recycle the cathode, anode,
and electrolyte. Therefore, time has come to summarize the highlights
in this emerging area to facilitate young researchers. In this review,
starting from the current market demand and commercial value of lithium
ion batteries, we have summarized the most recent progress in the
direction of recycling the cathode and anode materials and electrolyte.
At the beginning, an overview of the recycling techniques is presented
to grasp understanding of the topic. Later, laboratory and industrial
investigations and implementation are reviewed with emphasis on anode
(graphite) and electrolyte recovery. Life cycle assessment of end-of-life
LIB recycling, limitations, and future efforts have also mentioned
to focus on improving the efficiency of metal extraction and separation
with the sustainable and systematic recycling of spent lithium ion
batteries.
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