The performance of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) is severely degraded at low temperatures, hindering further development and applications. The commercial graphite anode used in LIBs exhibits slow lithium-ion diffusion and a low lithiation potential, which can lead to lithium plating and consequently poor low-temperature charging capability. In contrast, tin-based anodes show high capacities and moderate lithiation potentials, thus resulting in superior low-temperature performance. This study presents a facile approach to prepare SnSb-Li₄Ti₅O₁₂ composites through a simple ball-milling method. A fine balance between high capacity and cycling stability was achieved with a 30% LTO composite, which displays excellent high-rate lithium storage capability and cycling stability at room and low temperatures. Specifically, after 300 cycles at 30 ℃, the composite material delivers a specific capacity of 536 mAh/g, with a capacity retention rate close to 90%. Even at a high rate of 20 A/g (34C), the specific capacity remains at around 280 mAh/g, approximately 50% of that at 0.2 A/g. When cycling 100 times at -30 ℃ and a current density of 0.2 A/g, a reversible specific capacity of about 413 mAh/g was obtained (74% of room temperature capacity). Moreover, at -30 ℃ and a rate of 1.0 A/g, a moderate lithiation potential is maintained, and the capacity can reach 61% of the value at room temperature. The results suggest that the phase structure of SnSb remains intact during cycling, which ensures the cycling stability and high-rate capacity. This work demonstrates the possibility of low-temperature applications of SnSb-LTO composite anode materials and provides a basis for the development of fast charging LIBs at low-temperature.

The rapid development of new energy technologies has demanded higher requirements for the application of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) for operation at low temperatures. The poor surface dynamics of graphite anodes is one of the main issues limiting the low-temperature performance of LIBs. In this study, amorphous carbon/niobium oxide multicomponent-coated graphite composite materials (C/Nb-Gr) were synthesized using a liquid-phase method. The optimal C/Nb-Gr ratio was determined by adjusting the preparation method and coating ratio of multicomponent materials. The crystal structure, morphology, and elemental distribution of C/Nb-Gr were characterized using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Furthermore, its electrochemical performance at high rates and low temperatures was evaluated using cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and charge/discharge cycling. The graphite electrode coated with amorphous carbon/niobium oxide exhibited improved performance at high rates and low temperatures. When charged/discharged at a high current density of 5C at room temperature, C/Nb-Gr-10 demonstrated a reversible specific capacity of 156.18 mAh/g. Under low-temperature conditions (-20 ℃) at a current density of 0.1C, the discharge specific capacity of C/Nb-Gr-10 was 204.60 mAh/g, representing 55.7% of its room-temperature discharge specific capacity.

Lithium-ion batteries are widely used across various industries owing to their superior characteristics such as high energy density, high output voltage, and prolonged cycle life. However, their electrochemical efficiency drastically declines in low-temperature conditions, constraining their practical applications. To overcome this limitation, a novel low-temperature electrolyte, distinguished by exceptional cycling performance at ambient and low temperatures, was developed using fluoro-substituted benzene with varied fluorine substitution positions as diluents. Notably, the use of 1, 3-difluorobenzene as a diluent led to the development of an electrolyte, designated as 13DFB, exhibiting a conductivity of 1.252 mS/cm at -20 ℃ and a broad electrochemical window of 5.2 V. The inclusion of 1, 3-difluorobenzene in the electrolyte considerably reduces the formation of Li₂CO₃ in solid-electrolyte interphase and provides a protective layer to LiNi_0.6Co_0.2Mn_0.2O₂ (NCM 622) cathode particles. Moreover, when this modified electrolyte is used in a pouch cell configuration with a Li/NCM 622 combination at -20 ℃ and a cutoff voltage of 4.4 V, it achieves stable cycling for 200 cycles with a capacity retention of 92.8%. This study introduces an effective and straightforward strategy to enhance the low-temperature performance of electrolytes, demonstrating substantial potential for practical deployment.

Lithium iron phosphate (LFP) materials are known for their outstanding cycle stability and energy density at room temperature (RT, 25 ℃); however, their performance at low temperatures (LT, -20 ℃) is hindered owing to poor ionic conductivity and sluggish kinetics. This study introduces a novel all-ether high-entropy electrolyte, formulated by integrating ethers of varying solvating powers, to enhance the electrochemical performance of LFP batteries at LT. Experimental results confirm that this approach considerably enhances the ionic conductivity and kinetic stability of the electrolyte at LT, thereby substantially improving the low-temperature discharge capacity and cycle lifespan of LFP batteries. The mix-7 electrolyte variant, in particular, demonstrates exceptional charge-discharge stability at LT. After 150 cycles, it retains a high capacity retention rate of 99.7% and maintains 81.1% of its initial capacity at RT. This strategy proves effective and versatile, markedly enhancing the low-temperature performance and broadening the application spectrum of LFP batteries.

Pouch-type Na-ion batteries were fabricated using a Na₄Fe₃(PO₄)₂P₂O₇ cathode and hard carbon (HC) anodes obtained from different sources: biomass-derived (HC-A), resin-derived (HC-B), and biomass-derived (HC-C). The effect of the HC anode on the cycling durability and low-temperature performance was investigated. The charge transfer impedance, solid electrolyte interphase impedance, and diffusion coefficient values were determined for the three HC anodes by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, distribution of relaxation times, and galvanostatic intermittent titration technique. The kinetic properties, which directly affect the battery performance, showed the following trend: HC-A > HC-C > HC-B. The best cycling durability was obtained with HC-A, which was stable at room temperature with 5C fast charging and -10 ℃ with 0.2C charging. In addition, a capacity ratio of 87.5% was achieved with a 0.5C discharge at -30 ℃. The HC-B anode led to the lowest kinetic performance; it failed when cycling at 15 ℃ with 0.5C charging, and the capacity ratio was only 83.7% with a 0.5C discharge at -30 ℃. The low-temperature performance of the battery using HC-B was significantly improved by increasing the N/P ratio of the battery. After 100 cycles at -10 ℃ with 0.1C charging, the capacity retention remained stable at about 104%. This work represents an important foundation to improve the design of Na-ion batteries.

Na metal-based coin-type half-cells are widely used to evaluate the electrochemical performance of electrode materials. This work presents the limitations of Na half-cells when evaluating the low-temperature performance of electrode materials in a commercial ester electrolyte. Due to the high interface and charge transfer resistance of Na metal at low temperatures, a large deposition/stripping overpotential was reached. This interferes with the evaluation of the low-temperature performance. When the Na||hard carbon (HC) half battery was charged/discharged at 0.2C (1C = 300 mA/g) at -20 ℃, the change in potential of Na metal is as high as 0.94 V. The specific capacity of the HC electrode material is only 21.1 mAh/g, thus an inaccurate evaluation of the electrochemical performance is likely. Herein, a Na₁₅Sn₄@Na composite electrode was used to evaluate the performance of electrode materials at low temperature. The electrode potential of the composite is the same than that of the Na metal. At -20 ℃, the deposition/stripping overpotential of the Na₁₅Sn₄@Na||Na₁₅Sn₄@Na cell is only 0.09 V at 0.1^{mA/cm2, much smaller than that of the Na metal electrode (0.96 V). In the Na₁₅Sn₄@Na||HC half-cell, the HC anode exhibits a high specific capacity of 100.8mAh/gbefore Na metal deposition at -20 ℃, much higher than that of the Na||HC half-cell (21.1 mAh/g), indicating that the Na₁₅Sn₄@Na-based half-cell would allow for a more accurate evaluation of the low-temperature performance of electrode materials. This work provides an experimental basis for accurate assessment of the low-temperature electrochemical performance.}

Lithium-ion batteries are extensively used in various applications such as electric vehicles and electrochemical energy storage systems. However, safety concerns related to flammability and low flash point of commercial carbonate electrolytes limit their broad application. The incorporation of nonflammable flame-retardant diethyl ethylphosphonate (DEEP) into carbonate electrolytes has been shown to effectively reduce the risk of battery fires and explosions by mitigating electrolyte combustion. Nonetheless, the strong interaction between DEEP and Li⁺ leads to the infiltration of DEEP into the first solvated shell layer of Li⁺, contributing to the formation of solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) on the graphite anode. The SEI formed through the reductive decomposition of DEEP provides inadequate electron shielding, failing to halt the ongoing decomposition at the interface and leading to the failure of graphite anodes in DEEP-modified carbonate electrolytes. To address this issue, this study adopts a synergistic strategy, using ethylene carbonate as a strong ligand solvent and linear carbonate as a weak ligand solvent. This approach aims to diminish the interaction strength between DEEP and Li⁺, decrease the proportion of DEEP in the first solvated shell layer of Li⁺, and reduce the decomposition of DEEP on the anode. In the developed DEEP-modified carbonate electrolyte with a conventional concentration (~1.15 mol/L), the graphite anode shows an impressive capacity retention of 95.6% after 150 cycles. In addition, the electrolyte remains fluid at -60 ℃, and the graphite/LiFePO₄ battery retains 49.3% of its capacity after 50 cycles at -20 ℃.

The cycle life of low-temperature 18650 batteries has always been a key factor that limited their development. To achieve a balance between a long cycle life and low-temperature performance, the effects of different electrolytes on rate performance, high- and low-temperature discharge performance, charge retention capacity, cycle life, low-temperature cycle performance, and EIS were compared and analyzed by adjusting the components of the electrolyte solvent. The results demonstrated that the design of the electrolyte composition had a significant impact on the performance of the battery. By partially replacing the carbonate esters and the short-chain carboxylic esters with long, linear carboxylic esters having a low melting point, impressive low-temperature performance as well as high-temperature stability were achieved, which illustrated that EP and PP play an important role in the cyclic stability of the LCO/C electrode system. The solvent component EC+EP+PP (mass ratio 2∶5∶3) exhibited the best comprehensive performance. The developed LTB battery maintained a discharge capacity retention of 99.86% at 5C and a discharge capacity retention of 92.84% at -40 ℃ and 1C. After 1000 cycles, the low-temperature discharge capacity at -40 ℃ and 1C was still 90% of the initial low-temperature discharge capacity. At room temperature, the cycling retention rate reached 85% after 1500 cycles; at a low temperature of -10 ℃, the cycling retention rate was 82.4% after 500 cycles.

Thermal characteristics have an important impact on the performance of electric vehicles. Low-temperature environments greatly affect the capacity and lifespan of lithium batteries, whereas high-temperature environments can lead to thermal runaway. In order to ensure the safe and efficient operation of lithium batteries in high- and low-temperature environments, this study proposes a thermal management system that takes into account high and low temperatures. By disassembling a battery's heat storage module, which is composed of thermal insulation materials and phase change materials, heat dissipation and heat preservation can be realized in high- and low-temperature weather. Modeling and simulation were done using Star CCM+ software. The research results showed that the static time of the power battery was maintained above 0 ℃ for up to 17 h after discharging at different rates. The holding time of the power battery at low temperature was increased by about eightfold compared with the condition without thermal management, and the holding time was increased by nearly threefold compared with the holding time when phase change materials were used alone, and the need to add an insulation layer was verified. In practical applications, it was shown that an electric vehicle could be started directly after parking, which would prevent frequent preheating. Under high-temperature conditions, removing the heat storage module and using air cooling for heat dissipation saves energy and further strengthens the system's capacity for heat dissipation. After discharging at a 1C—3C rate, the maximum temperature of the battery pack after the addition of the thermal management heat dissipation system was reduced by 34%, 42%, and 48%, respectively, compared with the maximum temperature of the battery pack without heat dissipation measures, and the addition of fins had a significant effect on the cooling of the battery. The maximum temperature at the 1C—3C discharge ratio was 4.8%, 5.4%, and 6.7% lower than that without fins, respectively. The higher the discharge ratio, the greater the heat dissipation effect.

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are strongly considered the "heart" of portable electronic devices and electric vehicles, playing a vital role in advancing the de-fossil fuels for our sustainable world. However, during charging in low-temperature conditions (0℃ and below), the electrode polarization of LIBs increases, leading to significant Li plating. To address this issue, it is imperative to strategically design low-temperature electrolytes, that can reduce electrode polarization during low-temperature charging and establish a stable electrolyte-electrode interface. By doing so, it becomes feasible to effectively mitigate Li plating and its detrimental impacts on LIBs. In this review, we firstly introduce the formation mechanism of low-temperature lithium plating and emphasize that the implementation of low-temperature electrolyte to mitigating the low-temperature Li plating in working LIBs. Subsequently, we summarize various electrolyte design strategies aimed at mitigating the challenges posed by low-temperature Li plating. The strategies include weakly solvating electrolytes and solvent co-intercalation electrolytes to lower the desolvation energy barrier, localized high-concentration electrolytes for low-impedance SEI formation, and ester-based high-concentration electrolytes for passivating plated Li. Furthermore, we analyzed the strengths and weaknesses of these strategies. Lastly, drawing on existing research findings, we outline the future directions concerning the regulation of low-temperature Li plating behavior through electrolyte solutions. Emphasis is placed on the necessity of developing real-time early-warning methods for Li plating, evaluating the effectiveness of electrolytes in inhibiting low-temperature Li plating under practical conditions, and designing of low-temperature electrolytes tailored for silicon-carbon composite anodes that consider both electrochemical kinetics and interfacial stability. These approaches aim to simultaneously achieve high capacity and long lifespan of low-temperature LIBs.

A large-scale energy storage system is crucial for ensuring the stable, safe, and efficient operation of clean energy sources, which in turn facilitates the achievement of carbon peaking and carbon neutrality goals. Unlike the widely utilized lithium-ion batteries, sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) offer promising potential as a large-scale energy storage technology due to the abundance of their raw materials and their low cost. Although SIBs demonstrate excellent electrochemical performance at room temperature, their performance remains significantly challenged at low temperatures, which limits their broad application in extreme conditions. This limitation is primarily attributed to the sluggish diffusion of sodium ions and slow charge transfer kinetics, which are closely related to the properties of the electrolyte governing bulk and interfacial ion transport. In this review, we first outline the reasons for the decline in the low-temperature performance of SIBs from the perspective of electrolytes. Subsequently, we review the current research on low-temperature electrolytes by the optimization of traditional electrolytes and the development of new low-temperature electrolytes, and we summarize the findings about the solvent, solute, additive, and solvation structure of low-temperature electrolytes. Finally, we summarize the future development directions for low-temperature electrolytes.

The surge in electric vehicles and consumer electronics has diversified the performance requirements of the lithium battery-dominated modern energy market. A crucial performance metric impacting the practical use of lithium batteries is their operational temperature range. At low temperatures, commercial carbonate-based electrolytes exhibit reduced conductivity and increased viscosity, complicating the migration of lithium ions between the electrode and electrolyte. These conditions lead to diminished discharge capacity and shortened cycle life, considerably hindering the batteries' practical utility. Consequently, designing high-performance low-temperature electrolytes to enhance the cold-weather performance of lithium batteries is essential for expanding their application range. This review investigates the decline in lithium battery performance at low temperatures, assesses recent advancements in traditional and novel low-temperature electrolytes, and provides a detailed examination of solvents, solutes, additives, and solvation structures. This review particularly highlights the importance of optimizing the lithium-ion desolvation process in developing low-temperature electrolytes, underlining the pivotal role of microscopic solvation structures in understanding interfaces and lithium-ion migration at low temperatures. This comprehensive perspective aims to guide future designs of low-temperature electrolytes, offering a reference for developing large-capacity energy storage systems in cold environments.

Polymer-based electrolytes hold promise as components for solid-state lithium batteries due to their good flexibility, good compatibility with electrodes, and ease of processing. Polymer-based solid-state batteries work stably at room temperature; however, at low temperature (≤0 ℃), the low ionic conductivity of the polymer electrolyte and the slow lithium ion transport kinetics lead to an increase in the polarization of the cell, a sharp decline in its discharge capacity, and severe dendrite growth, which greatly restrict the usage of solid-state batteries at low temperature. After exploring the recent literature, we first introduce the challenges and limitations of polymer-based electrolytes in low-temperature applications, and we then elaborate on the ionic conduction mechanism of polymer-based electrolytes. Using examples, we focus on the design strategies and applications of polymer-based electrolytes at low temperature, including the optimization of ionic conduction in the bulk of polymer-based electrolytes by the addition of inorganic or organic fillers, the introduction of liquid plasticizers, molecular structure engineering, and optimizing ion transport at interfaces between polymer-based electrolytes and electrodes by means of in situ polymerization and the construction of a conductive solid electrolyte interface/cathode electrolyte interface. Finally, we evaluate the transport mechanisms, design principles, and preparation methods for low-temperature, polymer-based electrolytes. This study is expected to promote the application of polymer-based electrolytes and solid-state lithium batteries at low temperatures.

Commercial lithium-ion batteries predominantly utilize inorganic intercalation compounds as electrodes. However, these materials experience notable capacity degradation at <-20℃, thereby restricting their broader application in sectors such as electric vehicles, aerospace exploration, and military defense. Organic electrodes, characterized by their redox-active groups, demonstrate rapid reaction kinetics, adaptability to various ions, and robust low-temperature electrochemical performance. Moreover, the flexibility in structural design, abundance of elemental resources, and environmental sustainability of organic materials have garnered increasing interest in the domain of rechargeable batteries. This review highlights recent advancements in low-temperature organic batteries by categorizing organic electrode materials based on their distinct energy storage mechanisms and discussing the attributes that facilitate their rapid kinetics and effective performance in cold environments. The discussion extends to several notable low-temperature organic battery types, including organic metal (ion), nonmetal-ion, and dual-ion batteries, elaborating on their unique electrochemical behaviors. The review concludes by outlining the potential applications and challenges of employing organic electrodes in low-temperature rechargeable batteries, ultimately aiming to guide the development of future organic electrode materials and their integration with compatible electrolytes.

Lithium batteries are extensively used in portable electronic products and electric vehicles owing to their high operating voltage, high energy density, long cycle life, and low cost. However, their performance is critically limited under low-temperature conditions, posing challenges such as difficult charging, reduced discharge capacity, and shortened lifespan. Therefore, exploring the failure mechanisms of lithium batteries at low temperatures and enhancing their performance in such environments is crucial. This mini review discusses the impacts and failure mechanisms of electrolytes on lithium batteries at low temperatures, emphasizing the design of electrolytes. It highlights strategies and mechanisms to enhance lithium battery performance in cold climates. Key issues include sluggish lithium ion diffusion, increased electrical resistance, unstable electrode/electrolyte interphases, and potential lithium deposition, collectively degrading battery performance. Through electrolyte engineering—optimizing solvents, lithium salts, and additives—the operational temperature range of the electrolyte can be expanded, stable electrode/electrolyte interfaces can be constructed, and the desolvation process can be accelerated, thereby considerably improving performance. Furthermore, this review underscores that high-performance low-temperature electrolytes should fulfill three criteria: high ionic conductivity, stable electrode/electrolyte interphase, and rapid desolvation capability. This provides theoretical guidance for future synthesis of new solvents and electrolyte design.

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are extensively used in various sectors including mobile devices, electric transportation, and energy storage systems. Their ability to reliably perform in cold environments—such as alpine regions, polar areas, and high-altitude or near-space environments critical to scientific exploration and military strategy—is of paramount importance. Electrolytes have a great influence on the low-temperature performance aspects of lithium-ion batteries. The high melting points and sluggish ion transfer of conventional carbonate electrolytes in cold conditions pose substantial challenges, often leading to reduced power output or even battery failure. Strategies such as introducing solvents with lower melting points, reducing the proportion of ethylene carbonate, or designing ethylene carbonate-free electrolytes have proven effective. These measures broaden the electrolyte's liquid range and enhance ionic conductivity, which in turn mitigates battery polarization and improves LIB performance at low temperatures. This paper first analyzes the failure mechanisms and lithium precipitation behavior of LIBs at low temperatures from the perspective of the electrolyte. Subsequently, it discusses research findings and modification strategies for low-temperature electrolytes over the past 5 years, including the selection of solvent molecules, lithium salts, and film-forming additives. This paper also introduces recent innovations in electrolyte design, such as high-entropy electrolytes, diluted high-concentration electrolytes, and weakly solvated electrolytes. Finally, it presents a comprehensive examination of the advantages, drawbacks, and scientific challenges associated with designing low-temperature electrolytes, culminating in proposed future research directions based on the current state of the field.

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have gradually extended to the field of low-temperature environment because of their advantages such as high energy density, long cycle life and no memory effect. However, LIBs suffer from rapid capacity decay and poor rate performance in low-temperature environment. Based on the discussion of the recent relevant literature, this paper makes a differentiation analysis of the existing LIBs test standards, focusing on the difference of different test standards on the low-temperature test conditions and technical requirements. The strategy of improving low-temperature performance of LIBs is introduced mainly from the Angle of electrolyte design and electrode material design. In the aspect of electrolyte design, the strategies of electrolyte additive design, co-solvent design, lithium salt modification design and lithium salt and solvent composite modification design are introduced. In the aspect of electrode material design, the strategies of nanization, doping, coating, doping/coating composite modification and heterojunction design are mainly introduced. The comprehensive analysis shows that, combined with the requirements of existing LIBs test standards, the strategy of electrolyte modification design combined with electrode material structure design is expected to overcome the problems such as fast capacity decay and poor rate performance of LIBs at low temperatures by improving the ionic conductivity of electrolyte and enhancing the charge transfer ability of electrode materials.

Potassium-ion batteries (PIBs) have emerged as a potential energy storage device due to their high energy density and low cost. In particular, the smaller Stokes radius of K⁺ enables ultra-low temperature potassium-ion batteries. However, conventional electrolytes can cause PIBs to grow dendrites at low temperatures, leading to battery failure and safety hazards. Therefore, improving the low-temperature properties of the electrolyte is crucial to improving the low-temperature performance of PIBs. This study reviews the progress made in recent years related to low-temperature electrolytes for PIBs, which can be roughly divided into three categories, namely non-aqueous electrolytes, aqueous electrolytes, and solid electrolytes. Non-aqueous electrolytes mostly contain weakly solvating ether solvents and additives, which enhance the interfacial desolvation process and form a good solid electrolyte interface film on the electrode surface to improve the low-temperature performance of PIBs. The aqueous electrolyte helps PIBs to achieve good low-temperature performance by introducing specific additive molecules to lower the electrolyte freezing point and destroy the network of hydrogen bonds between the H₂O molecules. The quasi-solid-state electrolyte, which retains a small amount of liquid electrolyte in the channels of the polymer skeleton, improves the electrolyte bulk ion transport and reduces the contact resistance between the electrolyte and the electrode interface, which ultimately improves the low-temperature performance of PIBs.

Lithium-ion batteries have found widespread use in mobile devices, electric vehicles, and energy storage systems. With the rapid development of informational support systems and modern construction in the military, it is crucial to develop lithium-ion batteries capable of stable operation under low-temperature conditions. This would allow to meet the demands for energy storage and release in high cold areas, bipolar areas, and areas such as high and near space. Electrolytes are key components of Li-ion batteries because of their role in lithium ions transport and in the generation of a solid electrolyte film at the anode and cathode interface. The performance of electrolytes directly affects the low-temperature performance of lithium-ion batteries. Since the optimization of the electrolyte is easy to achieve in practical applications, there has been intensive research related to electrolytes in lithium-ion batteries. This work presents the research progress and issues related to low-temperature electrolytes for lithium-ion batteries. Then an analysis of the patents' applications related to low-temperature electrolytes in lithium-ion batteries was made. The overall applications' profile and the research progress, which is closely related to the market and industry, was evaluated, including technical branches such as electrolyte salts, solvents, and additives. From the patents' analysis, the main applicants were also noted. Finally, the limitations of the domestic innovative bodies are discussed in terms of patent layout. A reference for research in the field of low-temperature electrolytes for lithium-ion batteries is necessary.

Solid-state lithium metal batteries (SSLMBs) have emerged as a pivotal direction for developing next-generation secondary batteries, attributed to their high theoretical energy density and safety features. However, the decline in ionic conductivity of the solid electrolyte at low temperatures, coupled with increased impedance at the electrolyte/electrode interface (≤0 ℃), severely impairs the electrochemical performance of these batteries. This limitation hinders their application in military and civilian sectors. Addressing the low-temperature electrochemical performance is thus a critical technological challenge. This study concentrates on the advanced and emerging technologies in solid-state electrolytes, reviewing progress in the domain of low-temperature SSLMBs from a materials perspective. Initially, the low-temperature chemical characteristics and failure mechanisms of SSLMBs are analyzed, encompassing bulk ion transport, interface charge transfer, electrode surface structure, and lithium metal stability. Subsequently, we summarize the design technologies for advanced lithium-ion batteries operational at low temperatures according to different types of solid electrolytes. The design principles, the relationship between chemical composition and performance, and the interface optimization strategies for inorganic, polymer, and composite solid-state electrolytes are elaborated in detail. Lastly, we prospect future practical research directions for SSLMBs at low temperatures across four dimensions: new materials, new characterization techniques, new mechanisms, and new standards. This review aims to provide a comprehensive reference for the rational design of SSLMBs under low-temperature conditions.

Sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) have attracted much attention for large-scale energy storage applications due to the abundant sodium reserves and low cost. However, their use in high-altitude, deep-sea, and aerospace applications has been affected by the low-temperature environment. Extreme temperatures lead to a decrease in the diffusion coefficient of the sodium ion, slow migration kinetics, formation of sodium dendrites, and severe interfacial reactions. This, coupled with the tendency of sodium reactions to undergo irreversible phase transitions, can seriously degrade the electrochemical and safety performance of SIBs. Therefore, the rational design and modification of cathode materials are crucial for optimizing the low-temperature performance of SIBs. In this work, the research progress of relevant cathode materials for SIBs, including layered metal oxides, polyanionic compounds, and Prussian blue analogs in low-temperature environments is summarized. Layered metal oxide materials undergo further phase and structural changes during electrochemical reactions at low temperatures, thus their life cycle is somewhat limited. The large anionic groups of polyanionic materials limits the energy density of the materials. The synthesis of high-purity Prussian blue analogs remains a major challenge under low-temperature conditions. Existing strategies, such as surface coating, lattice doping, and structure optimization, can ameliorate the issues mentioned above. In addition, an analysis of the relationship between superior electrochemical performance and the modification of cathode materials is presented. A summary of the status and challenges of the development of SIBs at low temperatures is provided. The great limitations of low temperature on the kinetics during charging and discharging, as well as the unavoidable interaction between positive and negative electrode materials and electrolyte remain the most relevant challenges. This review will provide a reference for further development of SIBs cathode materials at low temperatures.

This bimonthly review paper examines 100 recent studies on lithium batteries, selected from a pool of 6,423 papers published between April 1, 2024 and May 31, 2024 by searching through the Web of Science database. Research on layered oxide cathodes, including Ni-rich oxides and lithium-rich materials, is still under extensive investigations in terms of the modification of doping and coating. For the alloying mechanism of anode materials, beside the 3D structural design, many researchers pay attention to binders. Research on solid-state electrolytes primarily focuses on the synthesis, doping, structural design, and stability of pre-existing materials and development of new materials. Investigations into liquid electrolytes mainly concentrate on optimizing solvent and lithium salt compositions for various battery systems and testing new functional additives. While more studies related to solid-state Li-S batteries have been published, the design of composite cathodes and modification of solid-state battery interfaces continue to draw large attentions. Efforts in liquid-electrolyte Li-S batteries are mainly focused on improving S activity and mitigating the "shuttle effect." Additional research in liquid-electrolyte battery technology targets novel electrode fabrication methods and the suppression of dendrite formation and side reactions on lithium interfaces. The field also encompasses numerous studies on the measurement and analysis of battery heat production and gas composition, failure mechanisms, thermal runaway, interfacial stability, etc.

Nickel-cobalt hydroxide is widely adopted as an electrode material in nickel-zinc batteries owing to its high theoretical specific capacity, economic benefits, and abundant availability. Leveraging a coprecipitation method, this study modulates the concentrations of various nitrate solutions with different nickel-cobalt ratios, enabling the one-step room-temperature synthesis of nickel-cobalt bimetallic hydroxides. Notably, the synthesized samples are intended for use as positive electrode materials in nickel-zinc batteries. Microstructural characterizations of the synthesized samples are performed using several techniques, including X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. Furthermore, the electrochemical performance of the samples as electrode materials for nickel-zinc batteries is assessed using an electrochemical workstation. The results reveal that using a high-concentration NaOH solution as the electrolyte results in higher capacities for nickel-zinc batteries compared to other nickel-cobalt hydroxides prepared via coprecipitation techniques. Notably, the optimal capacity is achieved at a nickel-cobalt feed ratio of 4∶1. Specifically, the Ni₄Co₁-LDH sample demonstrates the best performance, reaching a capacity of 327.9 mAh/g at a current density of 0.5 A/g. Consequently, a nickel-zinc battery is assembled using the Ni₄Co₁-LDH sample as its positive electrode material and zinc foil as its negative electrode material, with a high-concentration NaOH solution for electrochemical testing. Results reveal that the battery demonstrates a capacity of 230.7 mAh/g at a current density of 0.5 A/g. Overall, the proposed approach offers advantages of rapid material synthesis and excellent performance, thus offering new insights for the performance optimization of nickel-zinc batteries.

The development of key materials for solid-state lithium batteries, which represent next-generation high-performance energy storage solutions, is essential for enhancing their energy density, stability, and safety. Considering global patents on solid-state lithium batteries as research objects, this study employs a text mining method to extract material information from these patents. Furthermore, by constructing the primary distribution and co-occurrence network of materials, it analyzes the characteristics of material distribution and identifies potential future materials of solid-state lithium batteries. In addition to the above network, a distribution and co-occurrence network of institutions and materials is also established to examine the material layouts and research considerations of major institutions. Specifically, new materials and research institutions appearing in the patents on solid-state lithium batteries since 2021 are reviewed, and current research hotspots and future development trends are identified. Notably, the review identifies lithium, aluminum, lanthanum, phosphorus, and sulfide as critical materials appearing in the solid-state lithium battery patents. Furthermore, the results reveal that most organizations focus on these core materials, adopting similar strategies for material development and application. Interestingly, a few important institutions also report the development of new materials for solid-state lithium batteries and acquire related patents, thus driving material development, technological innovation, and the commercialization of solid-state lithium batteries. Thus, this paper proposes a new method for analyzing and identifying materials used in solid-state lithium batteries, offering valuable insights for material development and technological innovations within this field.

Mn-based layered cathodes are a prominent class of cathode materials for sodium-ion batteries, characterized by high theoretical specific capacity, low cost, and high thermal stability. However, these materials are prone to structural distortions, Na⁺/vacancy ordering, and the formation of transition metal vacancies, which detrimentally affect cyclic stability. Previous research indicates that mitigating transition metal vacancies can effectively enhance the electrochemical performance of these cathodes. This study investigates the impact of high-temperature liquid nitrogen quenching on the structure and performance of Na_0.67Fe_1/3Co_1/3Mn_1/3O₂ (NFCMO) and its quenched counterpart—NFCMO-LN—during the sol-gel process. NFCMO-LN exhibits improved specific capacity and rate capability compared with pristine NFCMO. Specifically, NFCMO and NFCMO-LN demonstrate initial cycle discharge capacities of 91.1 mAh/g and 129.8 mAh/g at 0.1C, respectively. Furthermore, after 100 cycles at 1C, NFCMO retains 100% of its capacity, whereas NFCMO-LN maintains 90%. Remarkably, NFCMO-LN achieves a discharge capacity of 56.2 mAh/g at a high rate of 10C. Structural analyses reveal that liquid nitrogen quenching effectively reduces transition metal vacancies and enhances structural stability, offering viable strategies for the design and optimization of cathode materials in sodium-ion batteries.

Gd₂O₃-doped CeO₂ (GDC) barrier layer is a crucial component of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC), which effectively prevents side reactions between the high-performance cathode La_0.6Sr_0.4Co_0.2Fe_0.8O_3-δ (LSCF) and the Y_0.16Zr_0.84O_2-δ (YSZ) electrolyte. The traditional wet ceramic technology used to prepare the GDC barrier layer results in low densities and excessive thicknesses. This fails to adequately prevent the diffusion of Sr and other elements and increases the ohmic impedance of the cell. Conversely, advanced coating technologies can produce ultrathin, dense GDC isolation layers; however, these methods incur high costs and are challenging to implement on nonflat plate-type cell surfaces. Previous research introduced a novel approach for creating dense GDC barrier layers through hydrothermal insitu growth. This method successfully yielded an ultrathin, dense GDC barrier layer on the YSZ electrolyte surface of an anode-supported cell, considerably enhancing the electrochemical performance of the cell. Considerably, the hydrothermal insitu growth technique was scaled up by 60 times, enabling the preparation of a continuous, 0.7 μm thick GDC barrier layer on a 10 cm × 10 cm industrial-sized anode-supported single cell. This development led to the construction of a GDC/YSZ bilayer electrolyte, substantially reducing the interfacial resistance of the cell and boosting its output performance. At 720 ℃ and under a working condition of 0.7 V, the output power of the single cell reached 61.6 W. This study demonstrates the potential for low-cost production of dense GDC barrier layers in industrial-sized SOFC single cells and confirms the viability of hydrothermal in situ growth technology for industrial applications.

With the implementation of the "double carbon" goal, increasing integration of new energy sources within grids, planned decommissioning of thermal power plants, and accelerated construction of pumped storage solutions as flexible regulating resources, rational planning has emerged as the most crucial factor ensuring the stability of power systems and guaranteeing the sustainable conversion of multiple energy forms. This study investigates optimization methods for pumped storage capacity planning and dispatching, considering scenarios of new energy utilization. Furthermore, it constructs a two-layer optimization model for pumped storage considering the minimization of the whole-life cycle costs, carbon emissions, and abandonment penalty costs of each power source as its upper-layer optimization objectives and the minimization of the carbon emissions and wind power fluctuations of each power source as its lower-layer optimization objectives. Subsequently, the study compares the star crow, genetic, and gray wolf algorithms, focusing on their advantages and disadvantages. By adaptively optimizing the parameters of the star crow algorithm, the study identifies the algorithm with superior optimization performance and speed and integrates it with CPLEX to solve the two-layer optimization model. Additionally, the upper and lower optimization objectives of the model are established by introducing a step penalty mechanism for carbon emissions and new energy abandonment. Experimental results reveal that regional power grids must accelerate the construction of pumped storage facilities by approximately 74.21% and reasonably decommission thermal power by approximately 40.79%. Remarkably, the developed model effectively reduces the comprehensive system cost by approximately 5.80%, decreases the abandonment rate of wind and solar power by approximately 20.43%, lowers carbon emissions by approximately 25.96%, and smooths out wind and solar power fluctuations by approximately 1.18%. These outcomes validate the effectiveness of the model and highlight the importance of rational planning, offering valuable references for the medium- and long-term planning of power systems.

Energy storage systems play a crucial role in the advancement of modern electric power systems. Among these, lithium-ion battery energy storage is a key area of focus. A technical challenge hindering the application of lithium-ion batteries in energy storage is safety. This paper explores the electrical and thermal characteristics of battery thermal runaway triggered by overheating. A stepwise heating experiment, employing natural convection heat transfer, was conducted to analyze the failure modes of batteries at various temperature thresholds using the Semenov theory. This research examines changes in voltage, the average voltage drop rate, and self-heating characteristics across different temperatures, considering internal side reactions. Results indicate that thermal runaway occurs at 140—160 ℃, peaking at a maximum temperature of 464.6 ℃. The phenomena of rupture and gas leakage during the thermal runaway considerably influence the peak temperature observed. Furthermore, when the state of charge of the battery is reduced to 50%, the battery transitions from thermal runaway to functional failure. These findings provide a foundation for future research on safety management and mitigation of thermal runaway in lithium-ion batteries.

Low-temperature batteries are developed to address the low-temperature deficiencies of chemical power sources and are widely applicable in polar scientific expeditions, medical electronics, power communications, public safety, and other fields, increasingly becoming an important part of the lithium battery industry. Intelligent electronic control technology enables systems to have higher autonomous analysis and decision-making capabilities, showing application prospects in low-temperature battery manufacturing management. This article summarizes the current research status and development direction of low-temperature batteries, grasps various low-temperature battery characteristics, analyzes battery intelligent management technology and solutions based on this, ensures the performance of the battery management system under extreme conditions, and aims to enhance the management level of emerging battery technologies.

To enhance the performance of phase-change-material (PCM) slab roofs, this study proposes an integrated cooling system combining a cooling tower with a pipe-embedded PCM slab roof. Further, leveraging the enthalpy method, the study establishes a computational heat transfer model of the developed integrated cooling system. Subsequently, the thermal performance and energy-saving potential of a similar system in Fuzhou city, China, are numerically investigated. Furthermore, the impacts of the phase-change temperature and thermal conductivity of the PCM and the pipe interval are explored, and the developed system is compared with a traditional PCM slab roof without embedded pipes. The results reveal that higher phase-change temperatures of the PCM lead to more significant solidification of the PCM within the integrated cooling system. However, with increasing phase-change temperatures of the PCM, the utilization rate of the PCM's heat of fusion within the system initially increases and subsequently decreases. Specifically, increasing the phase-change temperature of the PCM from 35 ℃ to 41 ℃ leads to a corresponding rise in the accumulated cooling load of the roof from 383 kJ/m² to 400 kJ/m², presenting an increase of 4.4%. Furthermore, higher thermal conductivities of the PCM and narrower pipe intervals improve the utilization rate of the PCM's heat of fusion within the integrated cooling system compared to that within traditional PCM slab roofs without embedded pipes. Specifically, increasing the thermal conductivity of the PCM from 0.2 W/(m·K) to 0.8 W/(m·K) boosts the utilization rate of the PCM's heat of fusion and the accumulated cooling load of the roof by 36.3% and 5.1%, respectively. Conversely, the corresponding values of the traditional PCM slab roof increase by only 33.1% and 6.3%, respectively. Moreover, when the pipe interval is decreased from 500 mm to 100 mm, the utilization rate of the PCM's heat of fusion in the integrated cooling system surpasses that in the traditional PCM slab roof by 2.7%—16.3%. Concurrently, the reduction in the accumulated cooling load of the roof increases from 3.8% to 10.9%. Overall, these findings demonstrate the potential of integrated cooling systems in promoting building energy savings and contributing toward the realization of dual-carbon goals.

With the transformation of the global energy structure and the widespread application of renewable energy, low-temperature lithium battery energy storage systems have rapidly developed under extreme environmental conditions due to their excellent performance. However, the issue of energy storage safety is becoming increasingly prominent. This article first analyzes the current application structure and research progress of low-temperature lithium battery energy storage systems, and on this basis, focuses on exploring how network analysis technology can improve the functional safety of low-temperature lithium battery energy storage systems. Intended to provide valuable reference for improving the safety performance of low-temperature lithium battery energy storage systems.

With the continuous implementation of several global environmental awareness initiatives in recent years, new energy vehicles have gradually emerged as crucial areas of development within the global automobile industry. Furthermore, ensuring the safe operations of power batteries, which represent the core components of new energy vehicles, has become critical for the development of electric vehicles. Accordingly, numerous studies have investigated the thermal characteristics of power battery systems, primarily focusing on the power battery pack or battery module. However, when designing power battery pack structures, ensuring the thermal performance of busbars, which are critical connecting components, is also crucial. Motivated by this, the current study focuses on the development of modules within square power battery systems, considering the structural designs, strength analyses, and heat dissipation evaluations of busbars in such battery systems. Furthermore, it examines the reliability settings of process parameters and verifications of product reliability. Overall, the findings of the study are anticipated to guide the development of battery systems.

In the context of global environmental protection and sustainable development, logistics and transportation, as the main industry consuming carbon emissions, are facing energy transformation. As an efficient and environmentally friendly clean energy source, fuel cells have gradually been introduced into logistics and transportation systems, playing an important role. This study provides an overview of the practical application of fuel cells in transportation systems, including the progress of fuel cell research, including the current working principles, types, and advantages of fuel cells. Based on this, the application of fuel cells in transportation systems was emphasized, including analysis and examples of multiple application modes. From the research results, fuel cells, as an efficient and environmentally friendly energy technology, have broad application prospects in logistics transportation systems and are worthy of further exploration and research.

The surge in the new energy industry has considerably escalated the utilization of lithium-ion batteries in energy storage systems, highlighting the imperative of addressing their safety concerns. This research focuses on the thermal safety issues of lithium-ion battery modules, particularly large-capacity lithium iron phosphate (LFP) variants. We conduct an integrated experimental and numerical simulation study to examine the surface temperature characteristics of these battery modules during thermal runaway propagation. A thermal runaway simulation model is established for LFP battery modules, which investigates the impact of aerogel pads of varying thicknesses on the mitigation of thermal runaway. Furthermore, it explores the energy transfer processes during thermal runaway events. The findings indicate that aerogel pads with thicknesses of 0.7 and 1.2 mm effectively inhibit the spread of thermal runaway within the battery modules. Increasing the thickness of the aerogel pads remarkably reduces the peak temperatures reached by the protected batteries. Upon the integration of the aerogel pad, the 2# battery received insufficient heat to sustain the internal irreversible reaction, thereby halting the thermal runaway at a specific node and preventing the complete occurrence of the reaction. This study enhances the accuracy of thermal runaway simulation models, facilitates the prediction of thermal safety characteristics at the planning stage, and contributes to the overall thermal safety of the products.

Lithium-ion batteries are extensively employed in electric vehicles, energy storage power stations, and various other fields, attributed to their high energy density, prolonged life cycle, and low self-discharge rate. In recent years, safety incidents involving lithium-ion batteries have become frequent, particularly concerning the safety of batteries with high specific energy, which poses a critical bottleneck in their advancement. Key research areas—such as the thermal runaway mechanism, thermal runaway propagation characteristics, and strategies to inhibit thermal runaway propagation—are essential for enhancing battery safety. This paper discusses the chain of exothermic side reactions that lead to thermal runaway in lithium-ion batteries, resulting in heat generation, warming, gassing, and exhausting processes within the battery. It analyzes the heat propagation pathways in battery modules during thermal runaway, examines the impact of various factors—such as the mode of thermal runaway initiation, battery connection mode, battery arrangement, environmental conditions, cathode material, charge rate, battery spacing, and stage of charge—on the characteristics of thermal runaway propagation, and delves into strategies for inhibiting thermal runaway propagation—including air cooling, liquid cooling, plate cooling, submerged cooling, phase change materials, high thermal conductivity materials, thermal insulation materials, and combinations of multiple thermal management technologies. Furthermore, the paper provides insights and perspectives on the mechanisms, simulations, and inhibition strategies related to thermal runaway propagation in lithium-ion, which holds remarkable implications for advancing the safety of these batteries and promoting the development and application of electrochemical energy storage technology.

As an advanced energy technology, the application of fuel cells in automotive engineering is increasingly receiving attention. Firstly, fuel cell technology can directly convert the chemical energy of fuel (such as hydrogen) into electrical energy without the need for combustion, thus its energy conversion efficiency is much higher than traditional internal combustion engines. This efficiency enables fuel cell vehicles to reduce energy consumption and increase driving range while ensuring power performance. Secondly, fuel cells mainly produce water and heat during the reaction process, without producing harmful exhaust gas and particulate matter, thus achieving zero emissions. In addition, fuel cells can use hydrogen gas generated from renewable energy sources such as solar and wind energy as fuel, thereby achieving energy recycling. In summary, an analysis will be conducted on the energy supply and storage characteristics of fuel cells in automotive engineering.

With the rapid development of modern manufacturing technology, information technology, and digital technology, the production of low-temperature lithium batteries has ushered in technological upgrades. This article summarizes the connection between mechanical design and digital intelligent manufacturing of low-temperature lithium batteries, as well as the technological optimization brought by the former. Firstly, the development process of digitalization and intelligence in the low-temperature lithium battery industry was analyzed, including digital manufacturing of low-temperature lithium batteries and two-stage intelligent manufacturing; Then, the focus was on exploring the optimization changes brought by mechanical design to the digital intelligent manufacturing industry of low-temperature lithium batteries. From the perspective of industrial development, deep integration with mechanical design technology can optimize the existing digital intelligent manufacturing technology for low-temperature lithium batteries from multiple aspects, which plays an important guiding role in the adjustment of the latter's industrial structure and technological upgrading.