Fluorine-Containing Materials Utilized in Electrochemical Energy Storage Devices

The demand for high-performance electrochemical energy storage devices has driven the development of advanced battery technologies with improved energy density, safety, and cycling stability.[1] Utilizing fluorine chemistry to design battery components is a critical strategy to accomplish these requirements. Fluorine has emerged as a crucial element in achieving these goals with fluorinated materials being employed in a wide range of battery applications, including separators, solid and liquid electrolytes, electrolyte additives, solvents, binders, and protective layers for electrodes.[2]<br/><br/>The utilization of fluorine extends across various critical components of electrochemical energy storage devices. Fluorinated electrolytes, for instance, exhibit improved conductivity and stability, thereby enhancing the efficiency and lifespan of lithium-ion batteries. These electrolytes contribute to mitigating issues such as dendrite formation and electrolyte decomposition, which are critical for the long-term performance and safety of batteries. Fluorinated electrodes represent another significant application area. Materials like fluorinated carbons and metal fluorides offer higher specific capacities and improved cycling stability compared to conventional materials. Fluorine doping or incorporation into electrode structures enhances their electronic conductivity, ion diffusion kinetics, and structural stability under cycling conditions. This results in batteries with increased energy densities, faster charging capabilities, and longer cycle life, meeting the growing demand for high-performance energy storage solutions.[3]<br/><br/>However, despite the promising advantages, the widespread adoption of fluorine-containing materials in electrochemical energy storage devices faces challenges. These include cost considerations, scalability of synthesis methods, and potential environmental impacts associated with fluorine-containing materials.[4] Addressing these challenges requires continued research and development efforts aimed at optimizing material synthesis, improving performance metrics, and ensuring sustainability throughout the lifecycle of these technologies.<br/><br/>Herein, we provide an overview of the diverse roles and significant impacts of fluorine-containing materials in enhancing the performance, efficiency, and safety of these crucial technologies. The role of fluorine chemistry is driving innovation and shaping the future of electrochemical energy storage technologies. High ionic conductivity over 10⁻³ S cm⁻¹, superior mechanical performance, and robust LiF-rich interphases at both the Li metal anode and the cathode are observed. Fluorinated solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) helps to enhance the cycle stability of batteries.<br/><br/><b>References:</b> [1] M. S. Whittingham <i>Chem. Rev.</i> <b>2004</b>, <i>104</i>, 4271; [2] Z. C. Shao et al. <i>Appl. Energy Mater.</i> <b>2021</b>, <i>4</i>, 2570; [3] Y. Wang et al. <i>Chem. Rev. </i><b>2024</b>, <i>124</i>, 3494; [4] Y. Feng et al. <i>Energy Environ. Sci.</i> <b>2022</b>, <i>15</i>, 1711.