This work introduces a next-generation dual-ion battery (DIB) architecture—applicable to both lithium dual-ion batteries (LDIBs) and potassium dual-ion batteries (KDIBs)—enabled by a high-entropy liquid electrolyte (HELE). The system operates via reversible intercalation of anions into a graphitic cathode at high potentials (≥4.5 V vs. Li/Li⁺ or K/K⁺), while cations are intercalated at the anode. The design leverages a multi-salt, multi-solvent electrolyte composed of near-equimolar mixtures of lithium and/or potassium salts dissolved in a diverse carbonate/ether solvent matrix. The elevated configurational entropy disrupts conventional ion–solvent coordination environments, resulting in weakened solvation structures that enhance ion transport, reduce viscosity constraints, stabilize electrode–electrolyte interfaces, and improve electrochemical stability at high voltages. Collectively, these effects enable extended cycle life with reduced degradation rates under high-voltage operation. Compared to conventional single-salt electrolytes, the HELE reduces ion pairing and aggregation, thereby improving ionic conductivity and enabling stable cycling at high current densities.

The novelty of this design lies in leveraging entropy as a tunable parameter to engineer electrolyte structure and function. While high-entropy concepts have been explored in solid-state materials, their implementation in liquid electrolytes for DIBs represents a significant advancement. The synergistic combination of multiple salts and solvents produces emergent properties—such as enhanced oxidative stability and interfacial compatibility—that cannot be achieved through traditional electrolyte formulations. This enables higher operating voltages, improved rate capability, and extended cycle life, addressing key limitations in current DIB technologies, particularly electrolyte oxidation, which is a primary failure mode. Additionally, the inclusion of both lithium and potassium salts allows for potential hybrid-ion transport behavior, improving rate capability and reducing cost through partial substitution with more abundant potassium species.

From a manufacturability perspective, the proposed electrolyte system is compatible with existing battery production infrastructure. The electrolyte is produced via standard solution-phase mixing under dry-room conditions using commercially available components, requiring no specialized equipment or novel fabrication infrastructure. Furthermore, compatibility with existing electrode materials (e.g., graphite and hard carbon) minimizes barriers to integration into current battery production lines.

The proposed technology has strong market potential across grid-scale energy storage and fast-charging applications. KDIB variants offer additional advantages in cost reduction due to the abundance of potassium resources while enabling more sustainable and geographically diversified supply chains. The improved safety, high-voltage operation, and cost-effectiveness position HELE-enabled DIBs as a competitive alternative to conventional lithium-ion batteries. Potential markets include grid-scale energy storage, where cost and longevity are critical, and high-power applications such as EV charging and load leveling.

In summary, this high-entropy electrolyte-enabled dual-ion battery represents a scalable and innovative advancement in electrochemical energy storage, combining improved stability, enhanced transport properties, and practical manufacturability to address key limitations of current high-voltage battery systems.