How Do Organic Batteries Work? Theoretical and Design Principles of Electrode Materials for All‐Organic Batteries

This concept article provides a comprehensive introduction and overview of how (fully) organic batteries and the respective redox-active organic electrode materials work. Options for cell setups are discussed, as well as the difference between half- and full-cells and the relevance of the two types. At the material level, the difference between organic and inorganic active materials is elaborated, and design possibilities of organic materials are presented.

Abstract

Post-Li battery technologies are becoming increasingly important. The diverse range of electrically powered devices requires a diversification of electrochemical energy storage technologies. Organic electrode materials are of particular importance for alternative batteries, not only because of the natural abundance of their constituting elements and low toxicity, but also because of the operating principle of their redox reactions and their compatibility with many types of battery chemistries, including multivalent metal and anionic batteries. All-organic batteries are a still a “young” field of research but offer promising opportunities in terms of mechanical and processing properties. In the development of batteries using organic electrode materials the understanding of their redox mechanisms, of the different cell types and the correct interpretation of data is of utmost importance. This comprehensive review offers insight into the working principle of organic-based batteries, into material design considerations, structure-property relations, highlighting the importance of standardized terminology, and into the characterization of newly developed organic electrode materials in battery cells, distinguishing between half-cells and full-cells.