Characterization methods of organic electrode materials

The development of novel organic electrode materials is of great significance for improving the reversible capacity and cycle stability of rechargeable batteries. Before practical application, it is essential to characterize the electrode materials to study their structures, redox mechanisms and electrochemical performances. In this review, the common characterization methods that have been adopted so far are summarized from two aspects: experimental characterization and theoretical calculation. The experimental characterization is introduced in detail from structural characterization, electrochemical characterization and electrode reaction characterization. The experimental purposes and working principles of various experimental characterization methods are briefly illustrated. As the auxiliary means, theoretical calculation provides the theoretical basis for characterizing the electrochemical reaction mechanism of organic electrode materials. Through these characterizations, we will have a deep understanding about the material structures, electrochemical redox mechanisms, electrochemical properties and the relationships of structure–property. It is hoped that this review would help researchers to select the suitable characterization methods to analyze the structures and performances of organic electrode materials quickly and effectively.