Enhancing lithium-ion battery performance with emerging electrolyte materials for sustainable energy storage solutions: A comprehensive review and prospects

The swift expansion of renewable energy sources and the growing demand for electric vehicles have spurred intensive research into advancing energy storage technologies, with a primary focus on lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). This all-encompassing examination delves into the possibilities offered by emerging electrolyte materials to elevate LIB performance, tackling key obstacles and offering insights into sustainable energy storage solutions. The analysis provides a thorough exploration of recent progress in electrolyte materials and their impact on LIBs, shedding light on their electrochemical properties, safety considerations, and scalability. The review delves into the most recent innovations in electrolyte formulations, encompassing ionic liquids, solid-state electrolytes, and gel polymer electrolytes, each exhibiting promising attributes such as heightened thermal stability, enhanced safety profiles, and increased energy density. The incorporation of these novel materials has the potential to address longstanding issues associated with conventional liquid electrolytes, including flammability and limited cycle life. Various pertinent technologies are discussed within the context of electrolyte advancements. Notable breakthroughs involve the use of ionic liquid-based electrolytes to improve thermal stability and safety, solid-state electrolytes to eliminate flammable components, and gel polymer electrolytes for heightened mechanical strength and flexibility. Additionally, the review explores the integration of nanomaterials and additives to optimize electrolyte performance, addressing challenges related to ion transport and electrode-electrolyte interfaces. Moreover, the review scrutinizes the implications of emerging electrolyte materials on LIB sustainability, considering factors such as resource availability, recyclability, and environmental impact. The potential widespread adoption of these materials in commercial applications is examined, emphasizing the significance of scalability, cost-effectiveness, and regulatory considerations. By addressing crucial performance and safety aspects, these advancements pave the way for sustainable energy storage solutions crucial for the transition towards a cleaner and more energy-efficient future.