Porphyrin- and phthalocyanine-based systems for rechargeable batteries

Porphyrin and phthalocyanine, typically planar aromatic macrocyclic molecules, have attracted considerable attention for application in rechargeable batteries due to their highly conjugated π-electron system, highly stable CN bonds and bipolar features. In particular, the structure diversity from the central metal and the peripheral substitution groups not only endows them multiple functions in various rechargeable batteries, but also makes them as structural units to construct various framework structures. Herein, a timely and systematic review about porphyrin- and phthalocyanine-based systems for rechargeable batteries is thoroughly summarized for the first time. Especially, their multiple functions and reaction mechanisms as redox active sites, redox mediators, O2/CO2 shuttles or electrocatalysts for metal ion batteries, dual-ion batteries, Li-S batteries, Li-O2 batteries or Li-CO2 batteries are also summarized and discussed. In addition, the merging porphyrin- and phthalocyanine-based frameworks are timely highlighted. Finally, current challenges and future perspectives are proposed. We hope this review would provide some inspirations on the development of porphyrin- and phthalocyanine-based systems for advanced rechargeable batteries.