Designs and applications of multi-functional covalent organic frameworks in rechargeable batteries

Recently, covalent organic frameworks (COFs) have attracted widespread attention for the research in rechargeable batteries due to their inerratic porous structure, adjustable porosity and designable framework. The porous structure with adjustable pore size is stacked into a one-dimensional ordered channel through the π-π interaction, which provides favorable pathways for rapid charge transport. Terrific structural designability exhibits unique advantages in electrochemical energy storage systems (EESS), such as active site diversity, structural stability, lithium and sulfur affinity, which furnishes a novel perspective for settling various problems of rechargeable batteries. This review introduces the structural features and reaction mechanisms of COF materials, then summarizes the design concepts and latest applications of redox-active (cathode and anode materials) and non-redox active (separators, hosts and solid-state electrolytes) COFs in rechargeable batteries. Finally, challenges and perspectives in these fields are discussed.