Are organic batteries a viable alternative to metal based systems?

Organic batteries, which utilize organic or polymeric active materials instead of metals or metal oxides, represent the most promising approach to overcome the technical and economical restrictions of the established metal-based systems.

What makes a good organic battery system?

If combined with solid-state electrolytes, particularly solid polymer electrolytes, organic batteries can be tuned to achieve desired shapes and applications 241. A practical battery and battery system need to be scalable, cost-effective, safe and recyclable. It also needs to be easy to assemble and disassemble, mass produce and regenerate 67, 242.

Are organic batteries more sustainable?

A lower energy to produce OEMs also indicates that organic batteries might be easier to degrade or recycle 65, 66, 67. The abundance of constituent elements of electrode materials is an important aspect affecting the cost and sustainability of batteries.

Are organic batteries suitable for small volume applications?

Organic batteries might be unsuitable for small volume applications or the requirements of high specific energy based on battery mass. However, organic batteries might work well as a complement to inorganic batteries, and thus, it is important to determine their most suitable applications. Fig. 4: Potential applications of organic batteries.

What makes organic batteries unique?

The inherent flexibility of organic and polymeric materials enables organic batteries to maintain superior electrochemical performance under mechanical stress, including stretching, torsion and bending 121.

Are organic batteries safe?

Similar to inorganic batteries, the safety and lifespan of organic batteries should also be evaluated and predicted, using big data algorithms to analyse their potential applications. Moreover, it is essential to assess the management of failed batteries and their biodegradability to mitigate environmental impacts.