A review of nanofibrous structures in lithium ion batteries

• The state of the research of nanofibers in Li-ion batteries was comprehensively reviewed.
• Different fiber configurations and advantages thereof for each LIB part were analyzed.
• Frequently applied chemical modifications on electrospun nanofibers and effects on LIB capacity and stability were reviewed.

Materials for harvesting and storing energy have been extensively studied in the last decade. Many inorganic materials have already been developed and utilized in products for electrochemical energy-storage systems. The nature of these complex materials requires further investigation from several approaches in order to improve specific characteristics of batteries, such as storage capacity and environmental impact. Fiber scientists have also introduced original solutions using mostly inorganic novel materials. Nanofibers and nanofibrous materials have found applications in the three battery components of anodes, cathodes, and separators. Many methods produce nanofibers; out of these, electrospinning is seen as the most adaptable technique because of the versatility and scalability of the process. The present review collates recent studies on nanofibers for applications in Li-ion batteries, with a focus on the electrospinning technique. The advantages of the investigated fibrous materials are explored in detail.