Lithium Nitrate as a SEI-Stabilizing Additive in Single-Ion Conducting Polymer Electrolytes for Lithium-Metal...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Polymer Science

Background:

• Single-ion conducting polymer electrolytes (SIPEs) are promising for lithium-metal batteries.
• Lithium dendrite growth and electrolyte decomposition are key challenges at the lithium-electrolyte interface.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effect of lithium nitrate (LiNO3) as an additive in SIPEs.
• To enhance the stability and performance of lithium-metal batteries.

Main Methods:

• Synthesized SIPEs with a poly(ethylene oxide) backbone and perfluorosulfonate anions.
• Incorporated LiNO3 as an additive into the SIPE.
• Compared electrochemical performance, charge transport, and interface properties of SIPEs with and without LiNO3.
• Evaluated Li|SIPE|LFP solid-state battery cells.

Main Results:

• LiNO3 addition resulted in a thinner yet more robust solid electrolyte interphase (SEI).
• Improved charge transport, electrochemical stability, and reversibility of lithium stripping/plating.
• Enhanced Coulombic efficiency and electrode morphology.
• Li|SIPE|LFP cells with LiNO3 showed significantly longer cycle life.

Conclusions:

• LiNO3 is an effective additive for stabilizing the lithium-metal interface in SIPEs.
• The robust SEI formed by LiNO3 significantly enhances battery performance and longevity.
• This strategy offers a promising pathway for developing safer and more efficient lithium-metal batteries.