Currently, there is considerable interest in developing advanced rechargeable batteries that boast efficient distribution of electricity and economic feasibility for use in large-scale energy storage systems. Rechargeable aqueous zinc batteries are promising alternatives to lithium-ion batteries in terms of rate performance, cost, and safety. In this investigation, we employ Cu₃(HHTP)₂, a two-dimensional (2D) conductive metal-organic framework (MOF) with large one-dimensional channels, as a zinc battery cathode. Owing to its unique structure, hydrated Zn²⁺ ions which are inserted directly into the host structure, Cu₃(HHTP)₂, allow high diffusion rate and low interfacial resistance which enable the Cu₃(HHTP)₂ cathode to follow the intercalation pseudocapacitance mechanism. Cu₃(HHTP)₂ exhibits a high reversible capacity of 228 mAh g⁻¹ at 50 mA g⁻¹. At a high current density of 4000 mA g⁻¹ (~18 C), 75.0% of the initial capacity is maintained after 500 cycles. These results provide key insights into high-performance, 2D conductive MOF designs for battery electrodes.

Fatal casualties resulting from explosions of electric vehicles and energy storage systems equipped with lithium-ion batteries have become increasingly common worldwide. As a result, interest in developing safer and more advanced battery systems has grown. Aqueous batteries are emerging as a promising alternative to lithium-ion batteries, which offer advantages such as low cost, safety, high ionic conductivity, and environmental friendliness. In this Review, we discuss the challenges and recent strategies for various aqueous battery systems that use lithium, zinc, sodium, magnesium, and aluminium ions as carrier ions. We also highlight the three key factors that need the most improvement in these aqueous battery systems: higher operating voltage for the cathode, a more stable metal anode interface, and a larger electrochemical stability window of the electrolyte.

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have become indispensable energy-storage devices for various applications, ranging from portable electronics to electric vehicles and renewable energy systems. The performance and reliability of LIBs depend on several key components, including the electrodes, separators, and electrolytes. Among these, the choice of binder materials for the electrodes plays a critical role in determining the overall performance and durability of LIBs. This review introduces polymer binders that have been traditionally used in the cathode, anode, and separator materials of LIBs. Furthermore, it explores the problems identified in traditional polymer binders and examines the research trends in next-generation polymer binder materials for lithium-ion batteries as alternatives. To date, the widespread use of N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) as a solvent in lithium battery electrode production has been a standard practice. However, recent concerns regarding its high toxicity have prompted increased environmental scrutiny and the imposition of strict chemical regulations. As a result, there is a growing urgency to explore alternatives that are both environmentally benign and safer for use in battery manufacturing. This pressing need is further underscored by the rising demand for diverse binder research within the lithium battery industry. In light of the current emphasis on sustainability and environmental responsibility, it is imperative to investigate a range of binder options that can align with the evolving landscape of green and eco-conscious battery production. In this review paper, we introduce various binder options that can align with the evolving landscape of environmentally friendly and sustainable battery production, considering the current emphasis on battery performance enhancement and environmental responsibility.