Lithium metal batteries are regarded as prominent contenders to address the pressing needs owing to the high theoretical capacity. Toward the broader implementation, the primary obstacle lies in the intricate multi-electron, multi-step redox reaction associated with sluggish conversion kinetics, subsequently giving rise to a cascade of parasitic issues. In order to smooth reaction kinetics, catalysts are widely introduced to accelerate reaction rate via modulating the energy barrier. Over past decades, a large amount of research has been devoted to the catalyst design and catalytic mechanism exploration, and thus the great progress in electrochemical performance has been realized. Therefore, it is necessary to make a comprehensive review toward key progress in catalyst design and future development pathway. In this review, the basic mechanism of lithium metal batteries is provided along with corresponding advantages and existing challenges detailly described. The main catalysts employed to accelerate cathode reaction with emphasis on their catalytic mechanism are summarized as well. Finally, the rational design and innovative direction toward efficient catalysts are suggested for future application in metal-sulfur/gas battery and beyond. This review is expected to drive and benefit future research on rational catalyst design with multi-parameter synergistic impacts on the activity and stability of next-generation metal battery, thus opening new avenue for sustainable solution to climate change, energy and environmental issues, and the potential industrial economy.

由于理论容量高，锂金属电池被认为是解决迫切需求的突出竞争者。对于更广泛的实施，主要障碍在于复杂的多电子、多步氧化还原反应，以及缓慢的转换动力学，随后引起一系列寄生问题。为了使反应动力学平稳，广泛引入催化剂通过调节能垒来加速反应速率。过去几十年来，大量的研究致力于催化剂设计和催化机理探索，从而实现了电化学性能的巨大进步。因此，有必要对催化剂设计的关键进展和未来发展路径进行全面回顾。在这篇综述中，提供了锂金属电池的基本机制，并详细描述了相应的优点和现有的挑战。还总结了用于加速阴极反应的主要催化剂，并重点介绍了它们的催化机理。最后，为金属硫/气体电池及其他领域的未来应用提出了高效催化剂的合理设计和创新方向。该综述预计将推动和有益于未来对合理催化剂设计的研究，该设计对下一代金属电池的活性和稳定性具有多参数协同影响，从而为可持续解决气候变化、能源和环境问题以及能源和环境问题开辟新途径。工业经济潜力大。