Sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) are expected to replace lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) as a new generation of energy storage devices due to their abundant sodium reserves and low cost. Among the anode materials of SIBs, transition metal chalcogenides (TMXs) have attracted much attention because of their large layer spacing, narrow band gap, and high theoretical capacity. However, in practical applications, TMXs face problems, such as structural instability and poor electrical conductivity. In this review, the research progress and challenges of TMXs in SIBs in recent years are summarized, the application of nanostructure design, defect engineering, cladding engineering, and heterogeneous construction techniques and strategies in improving the electrochemical performance of TMXs anode are emphatically introduced, and the storage mechanism of sodium is briefly summarized. Finally, the application and development prospects of TMX anodes in electrochemical energy storage are discussed and prospected.

Transition metal selenides have narrow or zero band-gap characteristics and high theoretical specific capacity. Among them, cobalt selenide and cobalt telluride have some typical problems such as large volume changes, low conductivity, and poor structural stability, but they have become a research hotspot in the field of energy storage and conversion because of their high capacity and high designability. Some of the innovative synthesis, doping, and nanostructure design strategies for CoSe_x and CoTe_x, such as CoSe-InCo-InSe bimetallic bi-heterogeneous interfaces, CoTe anchoring MXenes, etc., show great promise. In this paper, the research progress on the multistep transformation mechanisms of CoSe_x and CoTe_x is summarized, along with advanced structural design and modification methods such as defect engineering and compositing with MXenes. It is hoped that this review will provide a glimpse into the development of CoSe_x and CoTe_x anodes for alkali-ion batteries.