Chemical heterogeneity for battery materials

Review (2026)
Author(s)

Chenglong Zhao (Chinese Academy of Sciences - Shenzhen)

Xia Zhang (Technical University of Berlin, Southern University of Science and Technology )

Zhou Jin (Songshan Lake Materials Laboratory, Dongguan )

Zhenpeng Yao (Shanghai Jiao Tong University)

Marnix Wagemaker (TU Delft - Applied Sciences)

Hong Li (Chinese Academy of Sciences)

Baohua Li (Tsinghua University)

Xuejie Huang (Chinese Academy of Sciences, Songshan Lake Materials Laboratory, Dongguan )

Qidi Wang (Southern University of Science and Technology , TU Delft - Applied Sciences)

Research Group
RST/Storage of Electrochemical Energy
DOI related publication
https://doi.org/10.1038/s41570-026-00821-y Final published version
More Info
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Publication Year
2026
Language
English
Research Group
RST/Storage of Electrochemical Energy
Journal title
Nature Reviews Chemistry
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Abstract

Next-generation rechargeable batteries require materials that offer enhanced electrochemical capabilities. Achieving these goals depends on understanding the fundamental principles governing these materials, which presents challenges associated to the complex interactions between composition, structural characteristics and electrochemical performance in battery materials. Despite intensive research, progress remains limited regarding effective strategies to mitigate the degradation of fragile alkali-metal-deficient frameworks arising from lattice stress and structural or chemo-mechanical instability upon cycling. In this Review, we explore the importance of chemical heterogeneity in rechargeable battery materials. We discuss how heterogeneity at atomic scale, nano-domains and up to phase-segregated levels within particles can enhance the electrochemical properties of battery materials beyond those of their homogeneous counterparts. Introducing chemical heterogeneity, principles and mechanisms can be unlocked to develop materials with improved structural stability, ion conductivity, redox activity, and phase transition characteristics, driving progress in battery technology. Finally, we outline the challenges and strategies for developing the future battery materials. (Figure presented.)

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