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A Lithium Dendrite Inhibitor in Graphite Anodes Enabling Fast-Charging and Low-Temperature Lithium-Ion Pouch Cells
Xiaokang Gu1, Qiannan Zhang1, Qian Chen1
1School of Materials Science and Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, P. R. China.
Advanced Materials (Deerfield Beach, Fla.)
|March 28, 2025
Summary
This study introduces a novel strategy to improve lithium-ion battery safety and lifespan by regulating lithium plating on graphite anodes using single-atom manganese. This method significantly reduces dead lithium formation, enhancing performance under harsh conditions.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Electrochemistry
- Energy Storage
Background:
- Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) suffer capacity fading and safety issues due to lithium plating on graphite anodes during high-rate and low-temperature charging.
- This plating forms dendrites, reducing battery lifespan and posing safety risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a strategy for regulating lithium plating, transforming it into a reversible process.
- To enhance the safety and longevity of commercial LIBs by mitigating the negative effects of lithium plating.
Main Methods:
- A lithium dendrite inhibitor, specifically 1 wt.% single-atom manganese (SAMn), was introduced into the graphite anode (Gr-SAMn).
- The performance of Gr-SAMn anodes was evaluated in pouch cells under various charging rates and temperatures, including -20 °C.
Main Results:
- The addition of SAMn reduced dead lithium formation on the graphite anode by 90%.
- Gr-SAMn||NCM811 pouch cells demonstrated significantly improved performance, retaining 86.2% capacity after 1500 cycles at 2C and enabling 5C charging.
- Average coulombic efficiency at -20 °C improved from 97.95% to 99.94% with SAMn.
Conclusions:
- The single-atom manganese additive effectively regulates lithium plating, converting it into a reversible process.
- This strategy offers a promising alternative for creating safer, long-lasting lithium-ion batteries without compromising energy density.

