Next-generation Na/K-ion batteries: interfacial engineering, standardized benchmarking, and pathways to commercialization

Sodium-ion and potassium-ion battery (SIB & KIB) research is advancing rapidly to meet the escalating demand for scalable, cost-effective, and sustainable energy storage solutions. Within the domain of advanced non-Li-ion battery systems, Na-ion and K-ion chemistries stand out for their natural abundance and strong potential for high-performance applications in grid-scale, transportation, and multifunctional energy storage. While the fundamental electrochemistry and operational mechanisms underlying these systems have been extensively investigated, substantive debates remain regarding their practical viability, cycle life, and safety relative to established Li-ion technologies. Emerging research underscores that targeted advances in electrode architecture, interfacial engineering, and electrolyte optimization can markedly improve energy density, rate capability, and operational durability for both Na-ion and K-ion batteries. Nonetheless, key challenges persist, including the need to manage interphase stability effectively, mitigate degradation pathways, and translate laboratory-scale innovations into scalable, reliable devices. The absence of universally adopted benchmarking protocols further complicates direct comparisons across studies, limiting the field’s ability to reach consensus on best practices. An integrated, multidisciplinary approach—encompassing standardized evaluation, advanced diagnostics, and systems-level analysis—is essential to connect component-level breakthroughs with demonstrable improvements in real-world device performance.This Research Topic is designed to stimulate high-impact scientific research and critical reviews that systematically address the central scientific and technological barriers facing next-generation Na-ion and K-ion batteries. The primary aims are to advance mechanistic understanding of degradation mechanisms and failure processes using quantitative and operando techniques, drive innovation in electrolyte formulation, binder chemistries, and separator technologies through structure–performance correlations, and design advanced electrode and device architectures via scalable, robust fabrication methods. Submissions that explicitly bridge the gap between fundamental mechanistic insights and the demonstration of practical, manufacturable solutions—including process optimization and techno-economic analysis—are particularly encouraged. The promotion of benchmarking through standardized protocols is emphasized to ensure comparability and reproducibility across studies. Multidisciplinary approaches, such as advanced characterization, multiscale modelling, and the engineering of unconventional cell designs, are strongly welcomed. Through these concerted efforts, this Research Topic aims to deliver scientifically sound, practically relevant strategies that accelerate the deployment and commercialization of Na/K-ion battery technologies.The scope of this Research Topic is strictly confined to Na-ion and K-ion battery systems, placing particular emphasis on the investigation of materials, interfacial chemistries, and device-level electrochemical performance. Studies focused on Li-ion or other multivalent battery chemistries are outside the scope unless included for comparative analysis with Na-ion and K-ion systems.To advance the field and generate new insights in these priority areas, we invite submissions addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:• Electrode electrolyte interphase engineering (EEI/SEI/CEI) and interface stability in Na/K-ion batteries• Development and optimization of electrolytes, including salts, solvents, ionic liquids, high-concentration formulations, and functional additives• Design and evaluation of binder systems and electrode architectures for enhanced performance and durability• Innovation in cathode and anode materials, encompassing doping, coatings, morphological control, and surface reconstruction strategies• Advances in separator technology and the use of functional interlayers, including chemically active separators• Investigation of degradation mechanisms, safety issues, and thermal behaviour in practical cell formats• Establishment and adoption of standardized benchmarking protocols and comprehensive full-cell reporting for robust performance comparison• Exploration of structural batteries and multifunctional energy storage solutions• Application of advanced characterization techniques, modelling, high-throughput experimentation, and integration of hybrid systems• Translation of materials innovations to industrially relevant cell formats and scalable manufacturing processesContributions in the form of Reviews, Original Research Articles, Methods/Protocol Papers, Mini-Reviews, and Perspectives are particularly welcome. Topic editors: Sandipan Maiti, Manab Kundu, Atin Pramanik, Arup Chakraborty, Anuja Bokare Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/80143/next-generation-nak-ion-batteries-interfacial-engineering-standardized-benchmarking-and-pathways-to-commercialization