Tuning Li Nucleation by a Hybrid Lithiophilic Protective Layer for High-Performance Lithium Metal Batteries

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Battery Technology

Background:

• Lithium (Li) metal anodes are crucial for next-generation batteries.
• Lithium dendrite growth hinders the practical application of Li metal anodes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and implement a protective layer for stabilizing Li metal anodes.
• To mitigate lithium dendrite formation and improve battery performance.

Main Methods:

• A facile in situ surface reaction approach was used to create an Sb-based hybrid lithiophilic protective layer.
• Theoretical and experimental evidence was gathered to validate the layer's properties.
• Symmetric Li cells, Li-S full cells, and Li||LFP full cells were tested.

Main Results:

• The protective layer demonstrated excellent wettability and fast charge-transfer kinetics.
• Uniform Li nucleation and deposition were induced, reducing overpotential.
• Symmetric cells achieved over 1600 hours of lifespan with low voltage polarization.
• Full cells showed excellent cycling stability: 60% capacity retention in Li-S cells (800 cycles) and 74% in Li||LFP cells (500 cycles).

Conclusions:

• The Sb-based hybrid protective layer effectively stabilizes Li metal anodes.
• This strategy offers a facile and efficient method for enhancing rechargeable battery safety and longevity.