Game changers: scavenging materials for nonaqueous rechargeable battery applications

Abstract

Many potentially harmful reactive species are either present in nonaqueous rechargeable batteries or generated during their operation, with very negative effects on battery performance and/or safety. Scavenging materials have emerged as game changers, capable of directly eliminating and reducing the negative impact rendered by detrimental reactive species and thereby significantly improving battery performance and/or safety. This discussion introduces the origin of harmful species such as water and hydrofluoric acid, phosphorus pentafluoride, metal dendrites, combustion free radicals, active oxygen species and free radicals, as well as gaseous side products, and their adverse effects on battery performance and/or safety. We then describe and discuss scavenging materials having various structural characteristics and reaction chemistries with detrimental reactive species, as well as their positive role on battery performance and/or safety with respect to prominent nonaqueous rechargeable batteries, including lithium, sodium, zinc, and magnesium batteries. In addition, we outline the limitations of scavenging materials and the analysis techniques used in scavenging chemistry. The paper closes by offering perspectives on future development directions for scavenging chemistries in the realm of nonaqueous rechargeable battery applications. This comprehensive discussion will help to stimulate further advancements in novel scavenging materials for use in nonaqueous rechargeable battery applications.