Lithium-Based Batteries for Efficient Energy Storage: Nanotechnology and Its Implications

Abstract

Demand for energy overshadows all other problems mankind will face during the next half century. With more countries achieving higher economic development, this demand will continue rising dramatically. Plaguing the energy demand is our persistent dependence on fossil fuels and its related environmental effects. Renewable sources of energy are the most possible option to reduce this dependence. Since many green energy sources cannot provide consistent power at all times, efficient storage and transmission of generated energy is necessary. For this we require high-energy density devices that are rechargeable and cost-efficient. Although the development of new energy storage technology should continue, current high- energy density lithium-ion batteries should also be researched in great detail to improve their performance and widespread use. Toward this aim, we review the historic and recent development of cathode, anode and electrolyte materials in detail. We also review the mechanisms of charge transport and phase stability in these compounds. The use of nanotechnology has already found great influence in modifying these materials towards higher energy density and greater reliability. Nanotechnologies will go on to provide breakthroughs not only in better materials, but also better battery design for energy storage, such as in thin film and lithium-air batteries.