Universal Design Principles for Metal Battery Anodes Published in Science

We are proud to share the recent publication of our IMRE scientists in Science, titled “The contrast between monovalent and multivalent metal battery anodes.”  This comprehensive study presents a comparative analysis of six metal anode chemistries—monovalent (Li, Na, K) and multivalent (Mg, Ca, Al)—and proposes universal design principles to guide the development of next-generation energy storage systems.

The authors explore the electrochemical behaviours of these anodes in nonaqueous electrolytes, identifying common challenges such as irregular metal deposition and unstable solid electrolyte interphases (SEIs). It also highlights the unique characteristics of each metal system, shaped by differences in surface energy and cation charge density.

The paper proposes general strategies for electrode, electrolyte, and interphase design that promote horizontally deposited metals with preferred crystallographic orientations and structurally homogeneous SEIs with distinct chemical compositions. These insights offer a unified framework for advancing high-energy, low-cost metal anode batteries.

This publication marks a significant step forward in battery research and underscores the importance of cross-disciplinary approaches in solving complex energy challenges. We invite you to read the full article in Science (doi/10.1126/science.adl5482) to explore how these findings could shape the future of sustainable energy storage.