Alkali-Metal Anodes: From Lab to Market

Alkali-metal batteries (AMBs) are one of the most promising candidates for next-generation high-energy battery systems. However, dendrite growth and serious safety implications limit the commercialization of AMBs. After years of development, the process of bringing alkali-metal anodes from lab to market is still full of tremendous challenges in terms of safety and cycle life. In this review, we divide the commercialization process of alkali-metal anodes into three stages: the first stage is fundamental researches on alkali-metal anodes, the second stage is the application of alkali-metal anodes in high-energy-density battery systems, and the third stage is satisfying the needs of industrialization. We mainly focus on the second and third stages and attempt to establish a relationship between academia and industry in this field. Finally, we give several perspectives on opportunities and challenges in the future development of AMBs for practical applications.