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Abstract Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have solidified their position as primary energy storage solutions for applications ranging from portable electronics to electric vehicles. As power-intensive applications expand, achieving fast charging/discharging performance is increasingly critical for high-energy-density batteries. However, the increased thickness of electrodes in LIBs presents significant challenges for charge (Li⁺ and electron) transfer kinetics, as longer charge migration distances hinder fast charging and discharging performance. Enormous efforts have been made to summarize advancements in materials chemistry—optimizing ionic pathways and crystal structure—to enhance Li⁺ transfer within the bulk of electrode materials. Yet, materials design and modifications fall short of fully addressing Li⁺and electron transport limitations in thick electrodes. Despite the significance of potentially offering a solution to these constraints, the strategic engineering of electrode architecture has been rarely discussed. In this mini-review, we highlight recent innovations in electrode structural design for fast-charging applications, examining gradient architectures, low-tortuosity structures, and novel current collector designs. By exploring these advanced approaches and offering perspectives on future developments, we aim to promote further advancements toward achieving high-energy-density, fast-charging LIBs. 

Enhanced Zn anode kinetics and reversibility are achieved at a high ZUR by guiding Zn²⁺plating underlying the SnO_1.17interphase with a regulated (101) orientation, surpassing those achieved by inducing Zn(002) plating overlying the interphase. 

A heterometallic single-source molecular precursor Li2Mn2(tbaoac)6 (1 , tbaoac = tert -butyl acetoacetato) has been specifically designed to achieve the lowest decomposition temperature and a clean conversion to mixed-metal oxides. The crystal structure of this tetranuclear molecule was determined by single crystal X-ray diffraction, and the retention of heterometallic structure in solution and in the gas phase was confirmed by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and mass spectrometry, respectively. Thermal decomposition of this precursor at the temperatures as low as 310 oC resulted in a new metastable oxide phase formulated as lithium-rich, oxygen-deficient spinel Li1.5Mn1.5O3.5. This formulation was supported by a comprehensive suite of techniques including thermogravimetric/differential thermal analysis, elemental analysis, inductively coupled mass spectrometry, iodometric titration, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy studies, and Rietveld refinement from powder X-ray diffraction data. Upon heating to about 400 oC, this new low-temperature phase disproportionates stoichiometrically, gradually converting to layered Li2MnO3 and spinel Li1+x Mn2-x O4 (x < 0.5). Further heating to 750 oC results in formation of thermodynamically stable Li2MnO3 and LiMn2O4 phases. 

A covalently bridged macrocycle exhibits multifunctional properties, including dual-state emission, intramolecular energy transfer, Cu²⁺sensing, and mechanochromism, while permitting latent finger print imaging.