Layered double hydroxides functionalization toward rechargeable batteries

Layered double hydroxides (LDHs), known as typical two-dimensional materials with unique physicochemical properties, are regarded as promising candidates in energy storage fields. However, some inherent defects, such as poor conductivity and limited active sites, hinder the further development of LDHs. Recently, various functionalization strategies (e.g., intercalation of guest molecules; metal ions doping and defect introduction of host layer; exfoliation to monolayer; hybridization with functional materials; construction of hierarchical structure; interface engineering and phase transformation) have been used to modify the characteristics of LDHs, which provides guidance for designing novel nanomaterials. In this review, we discuss how these strategies improve the properties of LDH-based materials, which are expected to possess high electronic and ionic conductivity, high specific surface area and high mechanical and chemical stability etc. Moreover, the application of LDH-based materials in advanced energy conversion and storage techniques, including metal-ions batteries, lithium-sulfur batteries and metal-air batteries, have been comprehensively summarized.