Improving Cycling Performance of Anode-Free Lithium Metal Batteries By Electrolyte Design

Abstract

The anode-free lithium metal battery (AFLMB) is gaining attention due to its straightforward yet innovative cell configuration. However, the direct plating and stripping of lithium on the copper current collector presents challenges in material design and cell fabrication. Uncontrolled lithium growth and dendrite formation are common in these challenging conditions and can result in low coulombic efficiency. In this presentation, we summarize recent efforts to develop new electrolytes for high-voltage applications based on AFLMB protocols, including concentrated dual-salt and locally concentrated electrolytes, as well as additives. The solvation structure and corresponding interfacial analysis are significant factors in this development. Additionally, we aim to establish a titration-based method to estimate dead and inactive lithium in various electrolytes, which could facilitate the quick screening of various electrolyte candidates and offer further insight into the fundamentals of lithium growth and solid-electrolyte interface formation.