Recent Progress of Rechargeable Batteries Using Mild Aqueous Electrolytes

Abstract

Given the low cost, ease of fabrication, high safety, and environmental‐friendly characteristics, aqueous rechargeable batteries using mild aqueous solutions as electrolytes (pH is close to 7) and a monovalent/multivalent metal ion as charge carrier, are attracting extensive attention for energy storage. However, accompanied by advantages of mild aqueous electrolyte mentioned above, there are some challenges that stand in the way of the development of these aqueous rechargeable batteries, such as the narrow stable electrochemical window of water, instability of electrode materials, undesired side reactions, etc. In recent years, a massive effort is devoted to overcoming the drawbacks, and some encouraging works have arisen. In this review, the latest advances of electrolyte and electrode materials in aqueous batteries based on monovalent ion (Li+, Na+, K+) and multivalent ion (Zn2+, Mg2+, Ca2+, Al3+) are briefly reviewed.

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