Lean-catalyst LiF/Co heterointerface: Unlocking efficient prelithiation for high-energy-density lithium-ion batteries

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Battery Technology

Background:

• Developing high-capacity prelithiation agents for batteries is hindered by kinetic limitations and material instability.
• Conventional materials often face challenges with high operational voltages and insufficient stability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel prelithiation agent to overcome the limitations of existing materials.
• To enhance the performance of next-generation high-energy-density batteries.

Main Methods:

• Synthesized a cobalt-decorated lithium fluoride composite (S-LiF/Co) using a scalable solid-state route.
• Utilized theoretical calculations to understand the catalytic role of the LiF/Co heterointerface.
• Incorporated the S-LiF/Co additive into NCM811 cathodes for testing in full cells.

Main Results:

• The S-LiF/Co composite exhibited a high initial charge capacity of 886.23 mAh g⁻¹.
• The LiF/Co heterointerface effectively lowered energy barriers for Li+ migration and LiF decomposition.
• In NCM811||Si/C full cells, the additive led to a high initial energy density of 483.84 Wh kg⁻¹ and 80.42% capacity retention after 170 cycles.

Conclusions:

• The developed S-LiF/Co composite serves as a promising prelithiation agent for high-energy batteries.
• Interface engineering of LiF-based materials can overcome intrinsic barriers, offering effective prelithiation solutions.
• This approach significantly improves battery performance by compensating for irreversible lithium loss.