Toward Practical Ultralong-Life Li-Air Batteries in High-Humidity Environments: A Synergistic Strategy for...

Area of Science:

• Electrochemistry
• Materials Science
• Energy Storage

Background:

• Operational stability of lithium-air batteries (LABs) is severely limited in high-humidity environments, hindering practical deployment.
• Traditional LABs struggle with degradation pathways induced by moisture, impacting cycle life and performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a synergistic dual-interfacial engineering strategy for ultralong-life LABs in high-humidity conditions.
• To overcome the strict humidity limitations of conventional LABs through innovative electrolyte and interface design.

Main Methods:

• Introduction of an iodine-based redox mediator (SnCl4 and 1,8-diiodooctane, DIO) into the electrolyte.
• Engineering of protective interfaces on both cathode and anode sides to mitigate degradation.
• Evaluation of battery performance under high-humidity conditions and atmospheric air.

Main Results:

• The Li-O2 battery achieved over 2400 cycles (approx. 3000 h) at 1000 mA g-1 with low charge potential (<3.5 V) and high capacity (111879 mAh g-1).
• SnCl4/DIO-based LABs demonstrated over 1800 cycles (>2160 h) in ambient air without humidity control.
• The protective interfaces effectively suppressed nucleophilic/hydrolytic attack and ensured anode stability.

Conclusions:

• The proposed dual-interfacial engineering strategy significantly enhances LAB stability and longevity in humid environments.
• This work provides a viable pathway for developing robust LABs capable of operating under challenging atmospheric conditions.