Aqueous Organic Batteries Using the Proton as a Charge Carrier

Benefiting from the merits of low cost, nonflammability, and high operational safety, aqueous rechargeable batteries have emerged as promising candidates for large-scale energy-storage applications. Among various metal-ion/non-metallic charge carriers, the proton (H+) as a charge carrier possesses numerous unique properties such as fast proton diffusion dynamics, a low molar mass, and a small hydrated ion radius, which endow aqueous proton batteries (APBs) with a salient rate capability, a long-term life span, and an excellent low-temperature electrochemical performance. In addition, redox-active organic molecules, with the advantages of structural diversity, rich proton-storage sites, and abundant resources, are considered attractive electrode materials for APBs. However, the charge-storage and transport mechanisms of organic electrodes in APBs are still in their infancy. Therefore, finding suitable electrode materials and uncovering the H+-storage mechanisms are significant for the application of organic materials in APBs. Herein, the latest research progress on organic materials, such as small molecules and polymers for APBs, is reviewed. Furthermore, a comprehensive summary and evaluation of APBs employing organic electrodes as anode and/or cathode is provided, especially regarding their low-temperature and high-power performances, along with systematic discussions for guiding the rational design and the construction of APBs based on organic electrodes. The proton (H+) as a charge carrier possesses unique properties such as fast diffusion dynamics, a low molar mass, and a small hydrated ion radius, endowing aqueous proton batteries (APBs) with a salient rate capability, a long-term life span, and an excellent low-temperature electrochemical performance, as well as high safety. A comprehensive summary and evaluation of APBs employing organic electrodes as anode and/or cathode is presented, together with systematic discussions for guiding the rational design and the construction of APBs based on organic electrodesimage

Automated summary

Aqueous rechargeable batteries with low cost, nonflammability, and high operational safety have emerged as promising candidates for large-scale energy-storage applications. Proton batteries, using the proton as a charge carrier, exhibit a salient rate capability, a long-term life span, and an excellent low-temperature electrochemical performance. The use of organic materials as electrode materials in proton batteries is significant, and this research article provides a comprehensive summary and evaluation of the latest research progress and performance of organic electrodes in proton batteries.