Joule Heating Ultrafast Synthesis

Joule heating ultrafast synthesis (High-Temperature Shock, HTS) represents a revolutionary approach in material engineering, utilizing millisecond-level thermal shocks to achieve nonequilibrium states and precise control of defect engineering. This perspective highlights the rapid, nonequilibrium HTS of advanced energy materials. By generating ultrahigh temperatures and ultrafast heating/cooling rates through instantaneous electrical currents, it enables the creation of defect-rich materials within milliseconds, which can significantly enhance the electrochemical performance. Here, we summarize its applications in synthesizing electrodes for lithium-ion, sodium-ion, potassium-ion, and multivalent-ion batteries as well as highly active and stable catalysts for electrocatalytic reactions. Through precise control over defect configurations, the HTS improves ion transport and reaction kinetics while reducing energy consumption and production costs, aligning well with the concept of green sustainability. Despite challenges, such as thermal uniformity, equipment costs, and scalable manufacturing, future integration of Joule heating ultrafast synthesis with artificial intelligence and automation technologies holds promise to advance high-performance energy technologies.