Development of Proteins for High‐Performance Energy Storage Devices: Opportunities, Challenges, and Strategies

Abstract In pursuit of reducing environmental impact during battery manufacture, the utilization of nontoxic and renewable materials is essential for building a sustainable future. As one of the most intensively investigated biomaterials, proteins have recently been applied in various high‐performance rechargeable batteries. In this review, the opportunities and challenges of using protein‐based materials for high‐performance energy storage devices are discussed. Recent developments of directly using proteins as active components (e.g., electrolytes, separators, catalysts or binders) in rechargeable batteries are summarized. The advantages and disadvantages of using proteins are compared with the traditional counterparts, and the working mechanisms when using proteins to improve the electrochemical performances of rechargeable batteries are elucidated. Finally, the future development of applying biomaterials to build better batteries is predicted.