Nonreactive Electrolyte Additives for Stable Lithium Metal Anodes

Abstract

Rechargeable lithium metal batteries have been considered an attractive power source to satisfy the demand for the high energy density of next-generation portable electronics and electric vehicles. Nevertheless, safety hazards originating from its huge volume fluctuation, severe side reactions, and dendrite growth have long bottlenecked their practical applications. Optimizing a liquid electrolyte system by functional additives leads to a remarkably enhanced electrochemical performance by in situ regulating the electrodeposition behavior. In recent years, various nonreactive additives have been tested with significantly distinct principles and brilliant results, broadening the frontier of the research area of additives. Herein, the current progress in optimizing liquid electrolyte systems with nonreactive additives is discussed and analyzed in detail in terms of molecules, nanoparticles, and 2D materials. Finally, perspectives for its future development and vital unsolved questions concerning its commercialization are provided.