Design and modification of cathode materials for high energy density aluminum-ion batteries: a review

Aluminum-ion batteries (AIBs) have the advantages of high specific volumetric capacity (8046 mAh cm(-3)), high safety and low cost. However, extended application of AIBs requires the development of innovative electrode materials with high energy density, which mainly depends on the cathode materials. In this review, the recent efforts to improve the electrochemical performances of AIBs were introduced. In particular, we provided a critical overview of the effective modification methods related to the cathode materials of AIBs, including carbonaceous materials (graphitic carbons, amorphous carbons, porous carbons), metal oxides (V2O5, VO2, TiO2, MoO2), metal sulphide (FeS2, Mo6S8, SnS2, NiS, CuS) and so on. The synthesis, structure, morphologies and electrochemical performances of these promising cathode materials have been discussed in detail. We anticipate that this review will shed light on the sustainable development of high-performance and low cost AIBs.