Recent Advances in Rechargeable Li-CO2 Batteries

Li-CO2 batteries have attracted increasing attention recently due to their high discharging voltage (similar to 2.8 V) and large theoretical specific energy (1876 Wh kg(-1)). The conversion of CO2 relieves its detrimental impact effect on the environment. Despite the aforementioned superiorities, practical Li-CO2 batteries are still restricted by some issues, such as intricate multiphase interfacial reactions and intrinsic insulating characteristics of carbonate products. Here, reaction mechanisms based on CO2 conversion reaction are summarized. Updated research achievements about catalytic cathodes and electrolyte systems are reviewed and discussed. Critical scientific issues and innovative perspectives are presented for Li-CO2 electrochemistry. This review provides an overall recognition for the latest Li-CO2 system and indicates the potential evolutions for the next-generation energy storage system.

Automated summary

Li-CO2 batteries have high discharging voltage and large theoretical specific energy, CO2 conversion helps reduce environmental impact. However, practical batteries are limited by complex interface reactions and insulating characteristics. Research on catalytic cathodes and electrolyte systems are reviewed, presenting critical scientific issues and innovative perspectives for Li-CO2 electrochemistry.