Aluminum electrolytes for Al dual-ion batteries

Abstract

In the search for sustainable energy storage systems, aluminum dual-ion batteries have recently attracted considerable attention due to their low cost, safety, high energy density (up to 70 kWh kg−1), energy efficiency (80–90%) and long cycling life (thousands of cycles and potentially more), which are needed attributes for grid-level stationary energy storage. Overall, such batteries are composed of aluminum foil as the anode and various types of carbonaceous and organic substances as the cathode, which are immersed in an aluminum electrolyte that supports efficient and dendrite-free aluminum electroplating/stripping upon cycling. Here, we review current research pursuits and present the limitations of aluminum electrolytes for aluminum dual-ion batteries. Particular emphasis is given to the aluminum plating/stripping mechanism in aluminum electrolytes, and its contribution to the total charge storage electrolyte capacity. To this end, we survey the prospects of these stationary storage systems, emphasizing the practical hurdles of aluminum electrolytes that remain to be addressed.