Materials Challenges of Electrochemical Energy Storage Technologies

Electrical energy storage (EES) is critical for the efficient utilization of renewable energies like solar and wind as well as for electrifying the transportation sector. Rechargeable batteries and supercapacitors are the primary candidates for EES. Cost, safety, cycle life, energy, power, and environmental impact are the major issues hampering the adoption of these technologies. This presentation will first provide an overview of the basic principles involved in electrochemical energy storage, followed by an account and status of the existing electrode materials for lithium-ion batteries. After pointing out the materials challenges and opportunities, the presentation will then focus on (i) next generation of cathode and anode materials for lithium-ion batteries, (ii) high energy, high power lithium-sulfur batteries, and (iii) high-energy density dual-electrolyte lithium-air cells employing a lithium-ion conducting solid electrolyte.  Particularly, the importance of novel synthesis approaches, surface modification, electrode architecture, and optimum cell configurations to realize the necessary performance parameters will be emphasized.