A Review of Technology and Industry Trends in Next-Generation Secondary Batteries

Next-generation secondary batteries, including lithium metal batteries, all-solid-state batteries, lithium-sulfur batteries, and sodium-ion batteries, have emerged as promising alternatives to conventional lithium-ion batteries due to their potential for higher energy density, enhanced safety, and improved supply chain sustainability. Accordingly, major countries have intensified policy support and research initiatives to accelerate both technological development and commercialization of them. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent trends in policy, market, and technology related to next-generation secondary batteries from a commercialization-oriented perspective. Global policy frameworks and market prospects are briefly discussed, followed by an analysis of key technological challenges and representative approaches for each type of next-generation battery system, such as interfacial stability, safety, cycle life, and manufacturability. Consequently, this review provides insights into the current status of next-generation secondary batteries and outlines future research and development directions toward their large-scale commercialization.