Nanostructured Electrodes: Transformative Pathways for High-Performance Lithium-Ion Batteries

Abstract

The worldwide shift to renewable energy and electrified transport/grid systems intensifies demand for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), yet inherent limitations persist in energy density, structural integrity over cycles, and cost. Conventional electrodes like layered oxide cathodes and graphite anodes are limited by inadequate specific capacity, significant volume variation, and interfacial instability. This review emphasizes the impact of nanotechnology on electrode performance. Diverse nano-structuring designs—nanoparticles, nanowires, nanotubes, nanosheets, porous/hollow nanostructures—for advanced cathodes (e.g., layered metal oxides, olivine phosphates) and anodes (e.g., silicon, tin, transition metal oxides) are methodically assessed. Nanoscale engineering via morphology control, surface modification, and compositing enhances ionic/electronic transport while mitigating volume expansion, stabilizing electrode-electrolyte interfaces, and reinforcing structural integrity. Despite substantial improvements in capacity, cycle life, and rate performance, challenges include elevated surface area accelerating parasitic reactions, compromised volumetric energy density from densification hurdles, slurry processing complexities, and economic constraints. Future progress necessitates balancing electrochemical enhancements with scalable manufacturing, cost efficiency, and sustainable end-of-life management for advanced LIBs.