Compensating K Ions Through an Organic Salt in Electrolytes for Practical K-Ion Batteries.

K-ion batteries face significant challenges due to a severe shortage of active K ions, with cathode materials typically containing less than 70% K ions and first-cycle irreversible reactions consuming up to 20% more. Conventional K-ion compensation methods fail to supply sufficient K ions without compromising cell integrity. To address this, we introduce potassium sulfocyanate (KSCN) as an electrolyte additive capable of delivering up to 100% active K ions.

External Li supply reshapes Li deficiency and lifetime limit of batteries.

Lithium (Li) ions are central to the energy storing functionality of rechargeable batteries. Present technology relies on sophisticated Li-inclusive electrode materials to provide Li ions and exactingly protect them to ensure a decent lifetime. Li-deficient materials are thus excluded from battery design, and the battery fails when active Li ions are consumed.