A review of the energy storage aspects of chemical elements for lithium-ion based batteries

Energy storage devices such as batteries hold great importance for society, owing to their high energy density, environmental benignity and low cost. However, critical issues related to their performance and safety still need to be resolved. The periodic table of elements is pivotal to chemistry, physics, biology and engineering and represents a remarkable scientific breakthrough that sheds light on the fundamental laws of nature. Here, we provide an overview of the role of the most prominent elements, including s-block, p-block, transition and inner-transition metals, as electrode materials for lithium-ion battery systems regarding their perspective applications and fundamental properties. We also outline hybrid materials, such as MXenes, transition metal oxides, alloys and graphene oxide. Finally, the challenges and prospects of each element and their derivatives and hybrids for future battery systems are discussed, which may provide guidance towards green, low-cost, versatile and sustainable energy storage devices.

Deuterium labelling by electrochemical splitting of heavy water

Deuterium incorporation is crucial in organic synthesis and has wide applications in the pharmaceutical industry. State-of-the-art H/D isotope exchange and chemical defunctionalization for deuterium incorporation suffer from significant drawbacks, including expensive deuterium sources, low deuteration efficiency and poor selectivity. In this perspective, we highlight an alternative pathway for forming C-D bonds by electrocatalytic heavy water splitting (D2O) under mild conditions. In addition, the intrinsic mechanism and examples of the synthesis of deuterated pharmaceuticals are discussed in detail. Finally, we present the challenges facing this field and provide an overall perspective on future research directions.