High Energy Density Metal-Air Batteries: A Review

Abstract

In the last few decades, there are some exciting developments in the field of lithium (Li)-ion batteries from small portable devices to large power system such as electric vehicles (EVs). However, the maximum energy density of lithium-ion batteries is insufficient for the extended range of EVs propulsion. On the other hand, metal-air batteries have a greater power storage capacity, a few times more than the best performing lithium-ion batteries. Mechanically rechargeable zinc (Zn)-, magnesium (Mg)-, and aluminum (Al)-air batteries are receiving increasing attention, due to the advantages of using safe, low cost and abundant materials. If successfully developed, these batteries could provide an energy source for EVs comparing that of gasoline in terms of usable energy density. Nevertheless, there are still numerous scientific and technical challenges that must be overcome, if this alluring promise can be turned into reality. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances and challenges of metal air batteries from various elements, including air cathode, electrolyte, and anode. In addition, this review outlines the fundamental principles and understanding of the electrochemical reactions in the areas of lithium-air batteries. Finally, a summary of future research directions in the field of the metal-air batteries is provided.

Porous nanoarchitectures of spinel-type transition metal oxides for electrochemical energy storage systems

“…The metal-air battery (MAB) is an advanced energy storage technology for EVs that has the potential to surpass LIBs in terms of energy density. [102][103][104][105][106][107][108][109] Basically, this battery consists of (i) a metal anode (Li, Zn, Al, Mg, etc. ), (ii) an air-breathing cathode, and (iii) an ion-conducting electrolyte sandwiched between the two electrodes, as shown in Fig.…”

Li‐Ion Batteries and Beyond: Future Design Challenges

“…The overall electrochemical reaction depends on the anode material and the type of electrolyte such as aqueous, non-aqueous, or solid-state type and their combinations. [1,13,[131][132][133] Because metal anodes react excessively with H 2 O, protective layers such as ionically conductive ceramics or glass, e.g. LiSICON or NaSICON type ionic conductors must cover the surface of the metal anode in an aqueous electrolyte.…”

New Opportunities for Air Cathode Batteries; in-Situ Neutron Diffraction Measurements

“…Or, alternatively, the metallic electrode oxidizes forming hydroxides and/or oxide compounds, depending on the depth-of-discharge, reaction 3. In this category, Al-air, Mg-air, Zn-air or Fe-air batteries are included (Rahman Md et al, 2013).…”

“…Critically, the latter one needs passivation of the metallic lithium in order to operate safely. The highly irreversible formation of discharge products at the metallic electrodes in Al-air, Zn-air, Fe-air and Mg-air batteries affect their performance and, in addition, H 2 gas evolution occurs at the discharge potentials, which reduces the efficiency of the batteries (Rahman Md et al, 2013). In the case of Fe-air, addition of K 2 SnO 3 to the aqueous electrolyte improves the electrochemical performance of the battery (Chamoun et al, 2017).…”