The present invention generally relates to batteries and, in particular, to electrodes for use in batteries such as non-aqueous
metal-air batteries, for example,
lithium-air batteries, as well as in other electrochemical devices. Such devices may exhibit
improved performance characteristics (e.g. power, cycle life, capacity, etc.). One aspect of the present invention is generally directed to electrodes for use in such devices containing one or more pores or channels for transport of gas and / or
electrolyte therein, e.g., forming an open
porous network. In certain embodiments, the
electrolyte may be a gel or a
polymer. In some embodiments, there may be network of such channels or pores within the
electrode such that no
active site within the
electrode is greater than about 50 micrometers distant from a gas channel. In some embodiments, such systems may be created using electrodes containing gel or
electrolyte polymers, and / or by forming electrodes having different wettabilities such that certain regions preferentially attract the electrolyte compared to other regions, thereby causing self-organization of the electrolyte within the
electrode. Other aspects of the invention are generally directed to methods of making such batteries or electrochemical devices, methods of using such batteries or electrochemical devices, kits involving such batteries or electrochemical devices, or the like.