Bimetallic composite induced ultra-stable solid electrolyte interphase for dendrite-free lithium metal anode.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Energy Storage

Background:

• Lithium metal anodes are crucial for next-generation batteries but suffer from dendrite formation and performance degradation.
• Electrode polarization and dendrites pose significant safety risks and limit battery lifespan.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a lithium metal composite electrode that suppresses dendrite growth and improves cycling stability.
• To investigate the mechanism of uniform lithium deposition facilitated by a nickel framework.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a nickel and lithium bimetallic composite (NiLi-BC) electrode using a double roll process.
• Electrochemical cycling tests to evaluate stability and overpotential.
• In-situ optical microscopy and Raman spectroscopy to analyze interfacial behavior during lithium plating/stripping.

Main Results:

• The NiLi-BC electrode exhibited dendrite-free lithium deposition and stable cycling for over 2180 hours at a low overpotential (<15 mV).
• Optimized electric field and Li+ distribution at the interface promoted uniform lithium deposition.
• Assembled coin and pouch cells with NiLi-BC anodes showed enhanced capability and cycling performance.

Conclusions:

• The NiLi-BC composite electrode offers a promising strategy for stable and safe lithium metal batteries.
• The nickel framework plays a key role in regulating lithium deposition and improving interfacial stability.
• This approach holds significant practical value for advancing high-performance lithium-ion battery technology.