Research Progress of Lignin-Derived Functional Materials for Electrochemical Energy Storage

Lignin, a natural polymer material, has demonstrated significant potential for advancement in the field of electrochemical energy storage. The utilization of lignin-derived functional materials has greatly improved the performance and durability of devices for electrochemical energy storage while simultaneously mitigating environmental pollution. The present thesis investigates the application of lignin-derived electrochemical functional materials, including electrode materials, electrolytes, conductive agents, and binders. When employed as electrodes, lignin-derived carbon materials exhibit remarkable modifiability (doping, cross-linking, and composite). Importantly, the presence of heteroatoms and active sites for cross-linking plays a crucial role in regulating the disorder within the carbon layer and controlling pore parameters. Lignin-based polymer materials, when employed in non-electrochemically active storage functional components such as electrolytes, separators, and binders, demonstrate exceptional mechanical strength, superior adhesion properties, and enhanced ionic conductivity due to their distinctive phenylpropane structure and functional groups (hydroxyl, carboxyl, and carbonyl). Additionally, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of the current market prospects for lignin in supercapacitors and lithium-/sodium-ion batteries. Furthermore, we have systematically examined the challenges and opportunities that lignin encounters in the field of energy storage, thereby providing valuable insights for further advancements in lignin-based electrochemical energy storage materials.