Carbonaceous Materials as Anodes for Lithium-Ion and Sodium-Ion Batteries

The increasing global population and, thus, energy demand have made research into renewable energy sources more critical. Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) and sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) have been recognized as the most promising technologies for storing energy and effectively addressing this demand. Carbonaceous materials are the most widespread anode material due to their fascinating features, such as high theoretical capacity, high electrical conductivity, and excellent structural stability. Additionally, these materials’ abundance, cost-effectiveness, and environmental friendliness have emphasized the need for further investigation and development. Among these carbon-based materials, graphite (both artificial and natural) stands out as the most ubiquitous anode material due to its layered crystal structure, high mechanical strength, long cycle life, and excellent safety profile, making it ideal for intercalation with lithium and sodium. In recent years, extensive research has been conducted to enhance the efficiency of anodes and, ultimately, the overall performance of batteries. In this review, the role of carbonaceous materials in anodes for lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries was comprehensively investigated, focusing on advancements in synthesizing and optimizing artificial graphite. Furthermore, the intercalation mechanism and the factors influencing the electrochemical properties of both LIBs and SIBs were extensively discussed. This work also provides a holistic perspective on the differences between these two types of batteries, highlighting their cost, safety applications, and future potential advancement.