Non-aqueous Al-ion batteries: cathode materials and corresponding underlying ion storage mechanisms

Aluminum-ion batteries (AIBs) are recognized as one of the promising candidates for future energy storage devices due to their merits of cost-effectiveness, high voltage, and high-power operation. Many efforts have been devoted to the development of cathode materials, and the progress has been well summarized in this review paper. Moreover, in addition to materials, the intercalation mechanism also plays a key role in determining cell performance. Here, the research progress of cathode materials and corresponding ion intercalation mechanism in AIBs are summarized, including intercalation of AlCl₄⁻, intercalation of Al³⁺, and coordination of AlCl₂⁺/AlCl²⁺. This minireview provides comprehensive guidance on the design of cathode materials for the development of high-performance AIBs. Graphic abstract: [Figure not available: see fulltext.]