A Review of Current and Future Energy Materials for the Construction of Lithium-ion Batteries

This mini-review was performed to showcase the potential of lithium-ion batteries as key future energy-saving components for use in domestic, automobile, and other energy-demanding sectors. It explores the current and future energy materials that will transform the construction of Lithium-ion batteries, focusing on cathodes, anodes, electrolytes, and separators. It explores the critical advancement and challenges in the field of energy materials for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), focusing on various components essential for improving battery performance. Different studies have shown that traditional cathode materials, primarily Lithium Cobalt Oxide (LiCoO2), Lithium iron phosphate (LiFeO4) and Lithium Manganese Cobalt Oxide (NMC) have dominated the market due to their favourable electrochemical properties. However, thermal instability and high costs necessitate the exploration of alternative materials like lithium-rich layered oxides and poly-anion compounds which enhance safety and energy density. The drive for cleaner energy is never over-emphasized, with the global shift from fossil-based fuels, more energy sources are investigated to find materials that are sustainable and durable in ensuring energy demands are met of which lithium-ion batteries are the primary source for such endeavour. Recently, the development of high-capacity materials such as lithium-nickel-cobalt-aluminum oxide (NCA) and advanced composite structures shows improved conductivity and structural integrity during the charge-discharge cycle. These innovations aim to balance performance with cost-effectiveness. This mini-review made available details of material composition, types of electrolytes, limitations and challenges of adoption for researchers, students and industry.