Cement-based structural batteries: mechanism, influencing factors, and application

Structural energy storage integrated composite materials provide an innovative approach to the integrated development of structure and energy storage. Using cement-based materials as a structural electrolyte and combining it with electrode material can produce cement-based structural batteries. This review paper provides an overview of research on cement-based structural batteries. The paper introduced the conductive and discharge mechanism and discussed the key factors that affect resistivity and discharge performance from the major aspects of electrode and electrolyte. Research indicates that cement-based structure batteries can achieve a voltage of 1.5 V and a capacity density of 8.45×10⁵ mA·h·m⁻¹, and are rechargeable. With the characteristics of integrated structural and energy storage functions, it demonstrates the potential for applications in energy storage green building, smart concrete, and energy-harvesting concrete. Finally, the paper points out current problems and future research directions.