Unveiling the potential of high-entropy materials toward high-energy metal batteries based on conversion reactions: synthesis, structure, properties, and beyond

Abstract

The sluggish conversion reaction and uncontrolled dendrite growth inhibit the development of rechargeable metal batteries with high energy density and environmental friendliness. Thanks to the four core effects, high entropy (HE) materials have gained tremendous attention in rechargeable metal batteries based on conversion reactions toward resolving the above issues. Although the brilliance of HE materials in conversion reaction metal batteries, there is still lacking a comprehensive review to discuss the present status and challenges inherent to HE materials in rechargeable metal batteries based on conversion reactions. Herein, this review provides a comprehensive overview of structural characteristics, intrinsic properties, prevalent synthetic methodologies, characterization techniques, computational modeling, and diversified applications of HE materials in the realm of rechargeable metal batteries based on conversion reactions. In particular, we comprehensively summarize state-of-the-art research progress and highlight critical strategies in the rational design of advanced HE materials toward rechargeable metal batteries based on conversion reactions (Li-S, Li-air, Li-CO₂, and Zn-air batteries) including metal anode, cathode materials, and electrocatalysts from both experimental and calculational aspects. Finally, we outline the remaining challenges and future perspectives in the synthesis, characterization, and theoretical simulations of high-entropy metal battery materials based on conversion reactions.