The ‘‘zero-strain” spinel lithium titanate oxide (Li4Ti5O12) has been extensively studied as one of the most
promising alternatives to carbon materials in energy conversion and storage devices, because of its negligible
volume change (only 0.2–0.3%), ultrahigh rate capability, excellent safety characteristics (suppressed
formation of solid-electrolyte interphase (SEI) layer and avoided growth of lithium dendrites)
and cycling stability (intrinsic zero strain). However, the commercial large-scale applications of LTObased
Li-ion batteries (LIBs) and Li-ion capacitors (LICs) are greatly limited presently. This review mainly
concentrates on full cells of LTO-based LIBs and LICs from basic research to applied research. As for various
types of LTO-based LIBs, issues on material-cell performance relationships, compatibility of electrolytes,
specific applications, overall cost analysis, safety evaluations, gassing mechanisms/remedies,
and flexible/micro cell designs, are elaborated. This review also makes a concise summary of the evolution
of electrochemical capacitors (ECs), and an exhaustive description of various types of LTO-based LICs
on issues of new electrode materials, electrolyte optimization, and cell balancing. Finally, some helpful
perspectives are provided to promote the future development of LTO-based LIBs and LICs with high
performances.
