Electrolyte engineering and material modification for graphite-based lithium-ion batteries operated at low temperature

Graphite offers several advantages as an anode material, including its low cost, high theoretical capacity, extended lifespan, and low Li⁺-intercalation potential. However, the performance of graphite-based lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) is limited at low temperatures due to several critical challenges, such as the decreased ionic conductivity of liquid electrolyte, sluggish Li⁺ desolvation process, poor Li⁺ diffusivity across the interphase layer and bulk graphite materials. Various approaches have therefore been explored to address these challenges. On the basis of graphite anode and corresponding LIBs, this review herein offers a comprehensive analysis of the latest advances in electrolyte engineering and electrode modification. First, electrolyte engineering is discussed in detail, highlighting the design of new electrolyte formula with broad liquid temperature range, optimized solvation structure, and well-performed inorganic-rich solid electrolyte interface. The advances in material modification have been then depicted with the view of improving the solid bulk diffusion rate to show general strategies with excellent performance at low temperatures. Finally, the corresponding challenges and opportunities have also been outlined to shed light on viable strategies for developing efficient and reliable graphite anode and graphite-based LIBs under low-temperature scenarios.