Dual-phase enhancement strategy for Li₄Ti₅O₁₂-TiO₂ and other anodes in Li/Mg ion batteries

The rising demand for portable and environmentally sustainable energy for use in the electronic/electrical equipment, automotive and so on has resulted in an ever-increasing development in the rechargeable metal-ion-battery technologies. The anode is a crucial component of the battery system, influencing both the cost and overall performance of the batteries. To optimize the electrochemical properties of anode materials, constructing the dual-phase structure has been identified as an effective strategy. The mutual buffering between phases helps alleviate dramatic volume changes, while the abundant interfaces increase active sites and enhance ion transport. In this review, the research and development of main anode materials with dual-phase configurations in Li/Mg ion batteries are summarized and discussed. The fabrication methods, regulation strategy, electrochemical performance as well as enhancement mechanisms of dual-phase Li₄Ti₅O₁₂-TiO₂ composites, TiO₂-based composites, alloy-type materials and other types of dual-phase anodes are reviewed and compared in detail. Moreover, some perspectives about the future progress of dual-phase anode materials for metal-ion batteries are proposed.