Minireview on Achieving Low Charge Overpotential in Li–CO2 Batteries with Advancing Cathode Materials and Electrolytes

Lithium–carbon dioxide (Li–CO2) batteries have received extraordinary research attention for efficient energy storage applications to resolve future energy and environmental issues. However, there are still some obstacles that result in large polarization and low energy efficiency, especially for the CO2 evolution reaction (CO2ER) kinetics during the charging process. Thus, understanding the reaction chemistry for CO2 reduction and evolution is crucial in the development of Li–CO2 batteries. Herein, we provide a specific review on the rational designs in Li–CO2 batteries, from comprehensive insight into emerging Li2C2O4-based Li–CO2 batteries, especially in understanding the chemistry and electrochemistry properties of corresponding catalysts, and ongoing processes that are being made with light-assisted Li–CO2 batteries are also discussed. Considering the potential in terms of practical application, fundamental insights related to flexible batteries are also summarized, together with some alternative solutions for gas storage. In terms of some unresolved issues, we also compared and analyzed similar studies by different researchers to carry out follow-up studies more effectively. This review has profound implications for both a better systematic understanding of material design and the development of reliable rechargeable Li–CO2 batteries in the future.