Rechargeable Iodine Batteries: Fundamentals, Advances, and Perspectives

Abstract

Lattice distortion and structure collapse are two intrinsic issues of intercalative-type electrodes derived from repeated ion shuttling. In contrast, rechargeable iodine batteries (RIBs) based on the conversion reaction of iodine stand out for high reversibility and satisfying voltage output characteristics no matter when dealing with both monovalent and multivalent ions. Foreseeable performance superiorities lead to an influx of considerable focus and thus a renaissance in RIBs. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the fundamental chemistry of RIBs from the perspectives of physicochemical properties, conversion mechanism, and existing issues. Furthermore, we refine the optimization strategies for high-performance RIBs, focusing on physical adsorption and chemical interaction strengthening, electrolytes regulation, and nanoscale-iodine design. Then the pros and cons of tremendous RIBs are compared and specified. Ultimately, we conclude with remaining challenges and perspectives to our best knowledge, which may inspire the construction of next-generation RIBs.

Tuning Ion Transport at the Anode‐Electrolyte Interface via a Sulfonate‐Rich Ion‐Exchange Layer for Durable Zinc‐Iodine Batteries

“…[ 11,12 ] Nonetheless, ZIBs are encountering inadequate cycle life caused by the severe dissolution/diffusion of water‐soluble polyiodide intermediates in electrolytes as well as the poor stability of the Zn anode. [ 13–15 ]…”

Conversion‐Type Organic‐Inorganic Tin‐Based Perovskite Cathodes for Durable Aqueous Zinc‐Iodine Batteries

“…[ 1–3 ] Efficient and stable electrochemical activity of the zinc‐iodine system in aqueous electrolytes provides a desirable output voltage of around 1.29 eV [−0.76 V versus standard hydrogen electrode (SHE) for Zn/Zn 2+ and 0.53 V versus (SHE) for I 2 /I − redox couple] and a high theoretical capacity of 211 mAh g −1 with a flat discharge plateau. [ 4–6 ] Especially, the conversion reaction of iodine cathode helps to avert lattice distortion and structure collapse that degrade intercalation‐type electrodes, as well as the use of expensive ion‐selective membranes and electrocatalysts, thereby drawing wide attention among the community. [ 7–14 ] However, van der Waals forces linking iodine molecules within crystals are weak, which causes spontaneous sublimation and undesired thermal stability at ambient conditions and thus deteriorates the capacity and cyclic life of full batteries.…”

Hydrogen‐Bonded Organic Framework for High‐Performance Lithium/Sodium‐Iodine Organic Batteries

“…Promoting renewable, safe, highly cost‐effective, and environmentally‐friendly energy technologies is an essential scientific responsibility [3–5] . The rechargeable Li/Na‐I 2 batteries possess a high average operating voltage (≈2.9 V), high theoretical capacity (211 mAh g −1 ), and low cost of iodine, making them more economical than their counterparts [6–9] . However, the development of rechargeable Li/Na‐I 2 batteries has been severely limited in the past few decades by their low thermal stability and poor dynamics [10–12] .…”

“…[3][4][5] The rechargeable Li/Na-I 2 batteries possess a high average operating voltage ( � 2.9 V), high theoretical capacity (211 mAh g À 1 ), and low cost of iodine, making them more economical than their counterparts. [6][7][8][9] However, the development of rechargeable Li/Na-I 2 batteries has been severely limited in the past few decades by their low thermal stability and poor dynamics. [10][11][12] In addition, the high solubility of iodine and the intermediate product iodide in the electrolyte produced during the cell cycle can lead to a shuttle effect, resulting in self-discharge and low Coulombic efficiency.…”