From Li‐Ion Batteries toward Na‐Ion Chemistries: Challenges and Opportunities

Among the existing energy storage technologies, lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) have unmatched energy density and versatility. From the time of their first commercialization in 1991, the growth in LIBs has been driven by portable devices. In recent years, however, large‐scale electric vehicle and stationary applications have emerged. Because LIB raw material deposits are unevenly distributed and prone to price fluctuations, these large‐scale applications have put unprecedented pressure on the LIB value chain, resulting in the need for alternative energy storage chemistries. The sodium‐ion battery (SIB) chemistry is one of the most promising “beyond‐lithium” energy storage technologies. Herein, the prospects and key challenges for the commercialization of SIBs are discussed. By comparing the technological evolutions of both LIBs and SIBs, key differences between the two battery chemistries are unraveled. Based on outstanding results in power, cyclability, and safety, the path toward SIB commercialization is seen imminent. Although research in lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) and sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) began at the same time, LIBs have evolved faster, driven by the growth in consumer electronics. Here the historic driving forces which led to two development paths for LIBs and SIBs are highlighted. As LIBs face resource challenges, the question is: can SIBs catch up and replace LIBs?