Fluorinated\nInterface Layer with Embedded Zinc Nanoparticles\nfor Stable Lithium-Metal Anodes

Abstract

Lithium-metal batteries are promising\ncandidates for the next-generation\nenergy storage devices. However, notorious dendrite growth and an\nunstable interface between Li and electrolytes severely hamper the\npractical implantation of Li-metal anodes. Here, a robust solid electrolyte\ninterphase (SEI) layer with flexible organic components on the top\nand plentiful LiF together with lithiophilic Zn nanoparticles on the\nbottom is constructed on Li metal based on the spray quenching method.\nThe fluorinated interface layer exhibits remarkable stability to shield\nLi from the aggressive electrolyte and restrain dendrite growth. Accordingly,\nthe modified Li electrode delivers a stable cycling for over 400 cycles\nat 3 mA cm^–2 in symmetric cells. An improved capacity\nretention is also achieved in a full cell with a LiFePO₄ cathode. This novel design of the artificial SEI layer offers rational\nguidance for the further development of high-energy-density lithium-metal\nbatteries.