Research Frontiers in Energy‐Related Materials and Applications for 2020–2030

Abstract

structure was found for the first time in a mineral composed by CaTiO 3 in 1839. Since then, multiple metal oxide perovskites (AMO 3 ) were developed, which have interesting properties for ferroelectric, superconductive, and pyroelectric applications. Metal halide perovskites (X is a halide anion such as Cl − , Br − , or I − ), which were developed later, display promising semiconducting properties. In particular, lead halide perovskites (APbX 3 ) are the most widely studied perovskite composition and are classified according to the A cation into hybrid perovskites (methylammonium bromide, MA or formamidinium, FA) and all-inorganic perovskites (cesium, Cs). [2] The electronic properties of the perovskites are related to the M-X bond, while the size of the A cation can introduce crystal distortion and change the symmetry of the ideal cubic crystal structure. [3] Interestingly, by using a large A organic cation, low-dimensional halide perovskites can be formed, including 2D sheets, 1D chains, or 0D clusters. [4] Lead halide perovskites are revolutionizing photovoltaic technology thank to their outstanding optical and electronic properties, low cost, and simple preparation. Compared to silicon-based technology, perovskites are prepared from more abundant and low-cost precursors. The superior performance and high efficiency of perovskite-based solar cells (PSC) are due to i) high optical absorption coefficient, ii) long carrier diffusion length This article delineates the state of the art for several materials used in the harvest, conversion, and storage of energy, and analyzes the challenges to be overcome in the decade ahead for them to reach the market and benefit society. The materials covered have had a special interest in recent years and include perovskites, materials for batteries and supercapacitors, graphene, and materials for hydrogen production and storage. Looking at the common challenges for these different systems, scientists in basic research should carefully consider commercial requirements when designing new materials. These include cost and ease of synthesis, abundance of precursors, recyclability of spent devices, toxicity, and stability. Improvements in these areas deserve more attention, as they can help bridge the gap for these technologies and facilitate the creation of partnerships between academia and industry. These improvements should be pursued in parallel with the design of novel compositions, nanostructures, and devices, which have led most interest during the past decade. Research groups are encouraged to adopt a cross-disciplinary mindset, which may allow more efficient use of existing knowledge and facilitate breakthrough innovation in both basic and applied research of energy-related materials.

Highly Efficient, Dendrite‐Free Zinc Electrodeposition in Mild Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Batteries through Indium‐Based Substrates

“…The massive inclusion of renewable energy sources in the energy market is mainly limited by their volatile nature. To overcome this problem, stationary battery systems are employed to store the over‐generated electric power and to release it on demand when needed [1,2] . Aqueous metal‐ion batteries are among the most appropriate systems for stationary applications not only thanks to their environmental friendliness, but also since the high ionic conductivity of the aqueous electrolyte allows high power densities of the final cell [3,4] .…”

“…To overcome this problem, stationary battery systems are employed to store the over-generated electric power and to release it on demand when needed. [1,2] Aqueous metal-ion batteries are among the most appropriate systems for stationary applications not only thanks to their environmental friendliness, but also since the high ionic conductivity of the aqueous electrolyte allows high power densities of the final cell. [3,4] Further advantages of these systems are related to their low production and material costs and intrinsic high safety.…”

Open challenges and good experimental practices in the research field of aqueous Zn-ion batteries

“…In response to the increasing awareness regarding climate change, many countries have set the goal to increase the share of renewable energy within their total energy production 1 . Therefore, the development of cost-effective and safe energy storage technologies to accumulate the electrical energy harvested from renewable resources before putting it into the power grid has become a critical necessity of our society 2 , 3 .…”

How do we best synergize climate mitigation actions to co‐benefit biodiversity?

“…The large environmental and social impacts of land and seafloor mining underpin the need for developing alternative batteries, long‐lived products, an efficient recycling system for resources, together with mining approaches with strong considerations for environmental as well as social sustainability (Blay et al, 2020; Borah et al, 2020; Larcher & Tarascon, 2015). Several promising options exist, but with large uncertainties regarding their technical realization (Blay et al, 2020; Borah et al, 2020; Larcher & Tarascon, 2015). Policy measures that foster recycling and/or production quota will support the development of such options (Henckens & Worrell, 2020).…”