Corrosion and Materials Degradation in Electrochemical Energy Storage and Conversion Devices

Research and development on electrochemical energy storage and conversion (EESC) devices, viz. fuel cells, supercapacitors and batteries, are highly significant in realizing carbon neutrality and a sustainable energy economy. Component corrosion/degradation remains a major threat to EESC device's long-term durability. Here, we provide a comprehensive account of the EESC device's corrosion and degradation issues. Discussions are mainly on polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells, metal-ion and metal-air batteries and supercapacitors. Corrosion of bipolar plates/current collectors, carbon corrosion, electrode/electrocatalyst degradation, and various mitigation approaches are detailed. The collective information provided could help develop EESC devices with better durability.