Natural graphite anode for advanced lithium-ion Batteries: Challenges, Progress, and Perspectives

Natural graphite (NG) is widely used as an anode material for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) owing to its high theoretical capacity (∼372 mAh/g), low lithiation/delithiation potential (0.01–0.2 V), and low cost. With the global push for carbon neutrality and sustainable development, NG anodes are expected to increase their market share due to their abundant reserves, low production energy consumption, and non-toxic nature. However, as the industry evolves, there are increasing demands for enhanced long-life performance, fast charging capability, high energy density and thermal stability of NG anodes for LIBs. This review provides a detailed summary of the key factors affecting the electrochemical properties of NG anodes and comprehensively investigates modification strategies to improve the cycling life, rate performance, energy density and thermal stability of NG anodes. Additionally, the review forecasts the future development directions of NG materials, offering guidance for the advancement and utilization of advanced NG anodes.