Regulating Li-Ion Transport through Ultrathin Molecular Membrane to Enable High-Performance All-Solid-State-Battery

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Energy Storage

Background:

• Solid-state lithium metal batteries offer improved safety and energy density over conventional lithium-ion batteries.
• Key challenges include lithium dendrite propagation, poor electrode-electrolyte contact, and lithium carbonate formation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address the limitations of solid-state electrolytes in lithium metal batteries.
• To enhance the performance and stability of solid-state batteries using a novel nanomembrane.

Main Methods:

• An ultrathin, sub-nanometer porous carbon nanomembrane (CNM) was applied to the surface of a solid-state electrolyte (SSE).
• The CNM was characterized for its effects on ion transport, dendrite suppression, and chemical stability.
• All-solid-state batteries utilizing LiFePO4 cathode and Li metal anode with the CNM-modified SSE were cycled.

Main Results:

• The CNM improved SSE adhesion to electrodes and prevented lithium carbonate formation.
• Sub-nanometer pores in the CNM facilitated rapid lithium-ion permeation.
• The CNM suppressed lithium dendrite propagation by over sevenfold and enabled stable cycling at low stack pressure (2 MPa).
• The CNM provided chemical stability to the SSE during over 4 weeks of ambient exposure.

Conclusions:

• The developed carbon nanomembrane is an effective strategy for overcoming critical challenges in solid-state lithium metal batteries.
• This approach enhances battery safety, ionic conductivity, and long-term stability, paving the way for practical applications.