Alloy-Type Lithium Anode Prepared by Laser Microcladding and Dealloying for Improved Cycling/Rate Performance

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Nanosized alloy materials offer superior electrochemical performance in rechargeable batteries.
• Challenges include poor cycling stability and low adhesion at high mass loadings, hindering industrial use.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design a robust alloy-type anode with improved mass loading and stability.
• To overcome limitations of current alloy-type anodes for practical battery applications.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of alloy-type anodes using laser microcladding and dealloying.
• Validation using Germanium-Copper (Ge-Cu) and Tin-Copper (Sn-Cu) anodes.
• Characterization using in situ and ex situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM).
• Multiphysics simulation to understand solidification conditions and structural formation.

Main Results:

• Developed a porous network anode with continuous nano-ligaments of alloy materials bonded to conductive materials.
• Achieved enhanced cycling stability and high areal capacity in lithium-ion batteries.
• Demonstrated intact electron/Li ion transfer pathways and improved lithiation-delithiation stability.
• Provided critical solidification conditions for laser microcladding via simulation.

Conclusions:

• The laser microcladding and dealloying approach effectively creates stable, high-performance alloy-type anodes.
• The designed porous structure enhances electrochemical performance and addresses mass loading challenges.
• This method offers a viable pathway for developing advanced anodes for practical rechargeable battery applications.