Recent advances and interfacial challenges in solid-state electrolytes for rechargeable Li-air batteries

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Energy Storage

Background:

• Rechargeable lithium-air (O2) batteries (LABs) are attractive for electric vehicles due to their high energy density.
• Safety concerns with conventional nonaqueous electrolytes hinder the practical application of LABs.
• Solid-state electrolytes (SSEs) are being investigated as a safer, non-flammable alternative for LABs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the advancements in solid-state electrolytes (SSEs) for rechargeable lithium-air (O2) batteries (LABs).
• To focus on the critical interfacial challenges between SSEs and electrodes in LABs.
• To discuss potential strategies for developing effective SSEs for LAB applications.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review.
• Analysis of interfacial phenomena in solid-state lithium-air (O2) battery systems.
• Identification of challenges and solutions for SSE design.

Main Results:

• Interfacial issues between SSEs and electrodes are a primary obstacle for rechargeable LABs.
• Understanding and mitigating these interfacial challenges are crucial for progress.
• Various strategies exist for designing compatible SSEs and electrodes.

Conclusions:

• Solid-state electrolytes (SSEs) are key to addressing safety concerns in rechargeable lithium-air (O2) batteries (LABs).
• Further research into electrode-SSE interfaces is essential for realizing practical LAB technology.
• Developing robust interfaces will enable the high energy density potential of LABs.