Chapter 3 - Nanomaterials application in Li–Se and Na–Se batteries

Abstract

The Se-based energy storage materials are promising candidates for the development of high-performance rechargeable battery systems due to its distinctive features, such as the high-energy density, high power density, high storage capacity, superior cycle performance, excellent rate capability, moderate charge/discharge voltage plateaus, and environmental friendliness. Specifically, the electrical conductivity of Se is significantly greater than that of S, though it is chemically and electrochemically analogous to S to a great extent. However, various Li–Se battery systems still suffer from the enormous challenges in achieving extensive practical application including low mass loading of active materials, significant volume change, severe electrode pulverization, and the dissolution of intermediate lithium polyselenides in the electrolyte, similar to that in Li-S batteries. Both the advances and challenges of Li–Se batteries in carbonate/ether-based electrolytes are critically reviewed and future design strategies and fabrication techniques of Se-based electrodes are also envisioned.