Recent Progress in Aluminum–Air Batteries

Aluminum–air batteries have attracted considerable interest as alternative electrochemical energy systems owing to their high theoretical energy density, abundant aluminum resources, and inherent safety. These attributes make them promising candidates for cost-effective and long-duration energy conversion and storage applications. However, practical implementation remains limited by several challenges, including parasitic corrosion and uneven dissolution of aluminum anodes, insufficient activity and durability of air cathodes, electrolyte-related degradation, and system-level issues such as water management and cell configuration. Addressing these limitations requires integrated improvements not only at the material and component levels but also in cell and system design. This review summarizes recent research trends in aluminum–air batteries, with a focus on aluminum anodes, air cathodes, electrolytes, and cell and system designs, and discusses future prospects toward practical applications.