Mechanics and electrochemistry in nature-inspired functional batteries: fundamentals, configurations and devices

High-performance batteries with various functions are highly expected for next-generation intelligent equipment. Traditional batteries face great challenges such as adaptability to complex stress environments, biocompatibility, and integration with structural components. Energy metabolism and storage systems, in nature, have many advantages of high efficiency, flexibility, precision, controllability, and renewability. Inspired by nature, advanced electrochemical energy storage materials and devices have been rationally designed and manufactured along with great breakthroughs in recent years. In this review, we summarize the state-of-the-art progress in nature-inspired functional batteries. Specifically, the exploration inspired by nature introduces various behaviors of batteries operated under different stress conditions, including the four basic deformations (bending, tension/compression, shear, and torsion), resistance deformation, and repair deformation. Meanwhile, the nature-inspired design and manufacture of intelligent batteries are particularly discussed, including bendable batteries, stretchable batteries, self-healing batteries, and structural batteries. Finally, we summarize the challenges and opportunities for the development of nature-inspired functional batteries (NIFBs). This review highlights the inspiration for developing state-of-the-art NIFBs and aims to provide insights and extended perspectives for further research with broad application prospects.