Dynamic control of lithium dendrite growth with sequential guiding and limiting in all-solid-state batteries

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Energy Storage

Background:

• Solid-state electrolytes (SSEs) are crucial for inhibiting lithium dendrite penetration in lithium-metal batteries.
• However, lithium dendrite growth remains an inherent challenge due to SSE properties.
• Controlling dendrite growth is more practical than complete prevention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design a structural layer that guides lithium dendrite growth controllably.
• To develop a bilayer SSE system for dynamic dendrite management.
• To enhance the safety and performance of all-solid-state lithium-metal batteries.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a structural layer with graded lithium nitride particles.
• Integration of this layer with a less lithium-stable electrolyte.
• Analysis of interfacial pressure and dendrite behavior during battery cycling.

Main Results:

• The graded lithium nitride layer successfully confined lithium dendrite growth within specific regions.
• The bilayer SSE system demonstrated self-limiting dendrite growth at the interface.
• Interfacial pressure generated during cycling was effectively harnessed for dynamic dendrite control.

Conclusions:

• The designed interfacial structure provides a feasible strategy for regulating lithium dendrites.
• This approach offers broad applicability for improving all-solid-state lithium-metal batteries.
• Dynamic control of dendrite growth enhances battery safety and longevity.