journal article·2026-07-17Open access

Overcoming Interfacial Hurdles in Solid‐State Aluminum Batteries for Safe and Energy‐Dense Storage

Yunlei Wang, Xiaogang Zhang, Mingguang Wang, Yifan Wu, Shitao Dou, Taibin Wu

Abstract

ABSTRACT Solid‐state aluminum batteries (SSABs), leveraging the high theoretical capacity, natural abundance, and intrinsic safety of the metallic aluminum anode, are regarded as a highly promising energy storage system for the post‐lithium era. However, the severe solid–solid interface issues between solid‐state electrolytes and electrodes, including high interfacial impedance, sluggish ion transport kinetics, and uncontrollable aluminum dendrite growth, significantly constrain their practical energy density and cycling stability, representing a critical bottleneck toward commercialization. This review aims to systematically elucidate the physicochemical origins of the multi‐scale interfacial challenges in SSABs, with a focused discussion on the latest breakthrough strategies in interface design and engineering. It provides an in‐depth analysis of how constructing artificial interphases, designing gradient composite electrolytes, tailoring interfacial ion transport pathways, and introducing advanced characterization techniques can effectively promote uniform aluminum plating/stripping, suppress side reactions, and achieve stable interfacial contact. Furthermore, this work prospectively discusses feasible pathways toward compatible high ionic conductivity, excellent mechanical strength, and robust electrochemical stability through integrated interface architectures and synergistic electrode/electrolyte design. Finally, we distill the key challenges and future opportunities spanning from fundamental understanding to device integration, aiming to provide a clear roadmap for developing next‐generation SSABs that combine high‐energy density with long‐term operational safety.
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Research context

OpenAlex topics: Advanced Battery Materials and Technologies · Advancements in Battery Materials · Thermal Expansion and Ionic Conductivity

SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.

Affiliations

School of Materials Science and Engineering Chongqing University of Arts and Sciences Chongqing China

Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering University of Western Ontario London Ontario Canada

Institute for Advanced Materials and Technology University of Science and Technology Beijing Beijing China

Funding

Venture and Innovation Support Program for Chongqing Overseas Returnees

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