Decoupling Parasitic Reactions at the Positive Electrode Interfaces in Argyrodite-Based Systems

Li-ion batteries are the key stones of electric vehicles, but with the emergence of solid-state Li batteries for improving autonomy and fast charging, the need for mastering the solid electrolyte (SE)/electrode material interfaces is crucial. All-solid-state-batteries (ASSBs) suffer from long-term capacity fading with enhanced decomposition reactions. So far, these reactions have not been extensively studied in Li₆PS₅Cl-based systems because of the complexity of overlapping degradation mechanisms. Herein, those reactions are studied in depth. We investigated their effects under various operating conditions (temperature, C-rate, voltage window), types of active materials, and with or without carbon additives. From combined resistance monitoring and impedance spectroscopy measurements, we could decouple two reactions (NMC/SE and VGCF/SE) with an inflection dependent on the cutoff potential (3.6 or 3.9 V vs Li-In/In are studied) on charge and elucidate their distinct repercussions on cycling performances. The pernicious effect of carbon additives on both the first cycle and power performances is disclosed, so as its long-term effect on capacity retention. As a mean to resolve these issues, we scrutinized the benefits of a coating layer around NMC particles to prevent high potential interactions, minimize the drastic loss of capacity observed with bare NMC, and simply propose to get rid of carbon additives. Altogether, we hope these findings provide insights and novel methodologies for designing innovative performing solid-state batteries.