Laser Irradiation of Electrode Materials for Energy Storage and Conversion

In addition to its traditional use, laser irradiation has found extended application in controlled manipulation of electrode materials for electrochemical energy storage and conversion, which are primarily enabled by the laser-driven rapid, selective, and programmable materials processing at low thermal budgets. In this Review, we summarize the recent progress of laser-mediated engineering of electrode materials, with special emphases on its capability of controlled introduction of structural defects, precise fabrication of heterostructures, and elaborate construction of integrated electrode architectures-all of which are highly desired for many electrochemical processes, yet difficult to be precisely synthesized via conventional technologies. After a brief introduction of the fundamental mechanism of laser processing, its practical use for structural regulation of electrode materials is discussed in detail. The application of these laser-enabled materials for supercapacitors, rechargeable batteries, and some fundamental electrocatalytic reactions enabling energy conversion is then summarized. Finally, we highlight the challenges faced at the current stage, aiming to shed some light on the future development of this prosperous field.