Abstract
Rechargeable magnesium ion batteries (MIBs) have attracted increasing interest due to abundant reserves, high theoretical specific capacities and safety. However, the incompatibility between Mg metal and conventional electrolytes, among the most serious challenges, restrains their development. Replacing Mg metal with alloy-type anodes offers an effective strategy to circumvent the surface passivation issue of Mg metal in conventional electrolytes. Among them, Bi has the most potential in Mg storage owing to its unique characteristics. Herein, the advantages/challenges and progress of Bi-based anodes in MIBs are summarized. The theoretical evaluations, battery configurations, electrode designs, electrochemical properties as well as Mg storage mechanisms are summarized and discussed. Moreover, the key issues and some views on the future development of Bi-based anodes in MIBs are provided.