Advancements in two-dimensional materials as anodes for lithium-ion batteries: Exploring composition-structure-property relationships emerging trends, and future perspective

Two-dimensional materials, including graphene and its derivatives, MXenes, and transition metal dichalcogenides, have attracted significant research attention due to their unique physicochemical properties. Among the various applications of these materials, energy storage and conversion have gained particular importance in light of the ongoing energy crisis. In this review, a critical evaluation is presented, focusing on the fundamentals, recent developments, and future perspectives of two-dimensional materials as anodes in lithium-ion batteries. The emphasis of this evaluation lies specifically on the years between 2010 and 2023. The review will primarily delve into the design and manipulation of advanced interface architectures for anodes, the latest developments, and the composition structure-property relationship of transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), MXenes, molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), tungsten sulfide (WS2), and black phosphorous (BP). The main focus of the presented review revolves around modification techniques that hold great potential in energy storage applications and other energy-related fields. The exceptional characteristics of these materials, including efficient ion transport across layers and large surface areas facilitating enhanced ion adsorption and accelerated surface redox reactions, contribute to their promising performance. While we have accumulated about twenty years of experience in energy conversion applications, particularly in lithium-ion batteries, we found that a large number of articles have been published on electrodes and electrolytes. However, a critical discussion about the composition structure-property relationship, along with challenges and optimizing strategies for anodes, is still lacking. Therefore, this review aims to fill that gap. Additionally, an overview of recent research advances is provided, focusing on the application of 2D materials in advanced energy storage systems beyond conventional lithium-ion batteries. Key findings and strategies employed to address associated challenges are examined while considering the prospects of these materials in the field.