Enhancing the Performance of Aluminum Anodes in Aqueous Batteries: A Review on Alloying, Microstructure, and Corrosion Inhibition Strategies

Peiqiang Chen, Jinmao Chen, Qun Zheng, Yujuan Yin, Xing Su, Man Ruan () and Long Huang ()
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Peiqiang Chen: College of Power and Energy Engineering, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin 150001, China
Jinmao Chen: Institute of Systems Engineering, Academy of Military Sciences, Beijing 102300, China
Qun Zheng: College of Power and Energy Engineering, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin 150001, China
Yujuan Yin: Institute of Systems Engineering, Academy of Military Sciences, Beijing 102300, China
Xing Su: Institute of Systems Engineering, Academy of Military Sciences, Beijing 102300, China
Man Ruan: Institute of Systems Engineering, Academy of Military Sciences, Beijing 102300, China
Long Huang: Institute of Systems Engineering, Academy of Military Sciences, Beijing 102300, China

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 20, 1-16

Abstract: Aluminum-based seawater activated batteries (Al-SWBs) are highly cost-effective energy storage systems, with aluminum exhibiting a theoretical specific capacity of 2.98 Ah/g, second only to lithium, making it a promising candidate for next-generation sustainable energy storage and conversion technologies. However, severe hydrogen evolution and self-corrosion side reactions hinder the practical application of Al-SWBs, leading to unsatisfactory utilization of aluminum anodes. This review systematically summarizes the fundamental principles and strategies for enhancing the utilization efficiency of aluminum anodes from the perspectives of influencing factors and improvement approaches. In terms of alloying element doping, attention should be paid not only to elements that enhance performance but also to the impact of harmful impurities. Microstructure control can be achieved through advanced preparation techniques and subsequent annealing processes. Furthermore, the addition of corrosion inhibitors to the electrolyte can form a protective layer on the electrode surface, effectively suppressing self-corrosion behavior. This review aims to provide valuable insights and guidance for the development of sustainable and high-performance Al-SWBs, contributing to the advancement of green energy technologies.

Keywords: aluminum based seawater activated battery; aluminum negative electrode; alloying; micro organizational structure; corrosion inhibitor; sustainability energy storage (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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