Nanorod Cathodes: A Solution for Polycrystalline Cathodes in Next-Generation Lithium Batteries

As the demand for high-energy-density and safe lithium-ion batteries has increased, the limitations of conventional polycrystalline cathodes have become increasingly clear owing to their susceptibilities to mechanical degradation and electrolyte-driven side reactions. Among the emerging design strategies, nanorod structured cathode materials comprising radially aligned, rod-shaped primary particles offer compelling solutions to suppress microcracking and enhance structural robustness. This Review outlines the development progress, mechanisms for use in realizing nanorod morphologies, and how these microstructures enable enhanced performances in next-generation battery systems such as lithium–metal and all-solid-state batteries. Finally, future directions are proposed for fabricating nanorod cathodes as platforms for durable and high-performance energy storage.