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Modulating Electron Conducting Properties at Lithium Anode Interfaces for Durable Lithium-Sulfur Batteries.
Qi Jin1, Kaixin Zhao1, Jiahui Wang1
1Key Laboratory for Photonic and Electronic Bandgap Materials, Ministry of Education, School of Physics and Electronic Engineering, Harbin Normal University, Harbin 150025, People's Republic of China.
ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces
|November 18, 2022
Summary
Researchers developed an artificial anti-electron tunneling layer using lithium fluoride (LiF) and sodium fluoride (NaF) to block electron flow. This prevents lithium dendrite growth, enabling stable lithium-sulfur battery performance.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Electrochemistry
- Energy Storage
Background:
- Solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) properties are crucial for lithium-sulfur (Li-S) battery performance.
- Existing SEI research often prioritizes ionic conductivity over preventing lithium dendrite growth from electron tunneling.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design and evaluate an artificial SEI layer that blocks electron tunneling while maintaining ionic conductivity.
- To improve the safety and cycle life of Li-S batteries by controlling lithium deposition.
Main Methods:
- Constructed an artificial SEI layer enriched with lithium fluoride (LiF) and sodium fluoride (NaF) nanocrystals via a solution-soaking method.
- Conducted theoretical and experimental analyses to assess the electron-blocking capability and ionic conductivity.
- Tested symmetric cells and Li-S full cells under demanding conditions (high sulfur loading, lean electrolyte).
Main Results:
- The LiF/NaF artificial SEI demonstrated significant electron-blocking capability, suppressing electron tunneling.
- Achieved dendrite-free and dense lithium deposition even at ultrahigh areal capacities.
- The artificial SEI exhibited enhanced ionic conductivity and mechanical strength compared to conventional SEIs.
- Symmetric cells with protected lithium electrodes achieved 1500 hours of stable cycling.
- Li-S full cells showed long-term cyclability with high sulfur loading, lean electrolyte, and limited lithium excess.
Conclusions:
- The developed LiF/NaF artificial SEI effectively mitigates lithium dendrite formation by blocking electron tunneling.
- This approach significantly enhances the stability and cycle life of Li-S batteries.
- The study offers a novel strategy for designing advanced SEIs for safer and more practical Li-S battery applications.
