Recently advances and perspectives of anode-free rechargeable batteries

Anode-free batteries are emerging and have attracted great attention due to their high theoretical energy density, simplified structure and minimizing cost. However, some key issues such as poor cycling lifespan, low Coulombic efficiency, notorious metal dendrite growth and unstable SEI hinder the practical application of anode-free batteries. Comprehensive reviews on this topic are rare. This review aims to combine the fundamental development and perspectives to seek rational design parameters for practical anode-free batteries. First, the fundaments of anode-free batteries and factors that affect the cycling lifespan of anode-free batteries are summarized and discussed. Subsequently, we summarize strategies and mechanisms improving the electrochemical performance of anode-free batteries in terms of electrolyte, current collector, protocols, etc. At the end, perspectives and discussions are given on the further developments of anode-free batteries. This review may be useful for development and the researchers of this area.