Abstract
To surpass the energy capacity of current lithium-ion technology, it's vital to develop lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries using a minimal amount of electrolyte. However, the quick depletion of electrolyte, driven by reactions at the lithium metal anodes (LMAs), leads to decreased sulfur reaction efficiency and shortened battery lifespan. Addressing this challenge requires a robust protective strategy for LMAs that can withstand the changing dynamics at the interface between the anode and protective layers (PLs). This research highlights the importance of two factors—surface free energy (SFE) and Young’s modulus—in maintaining an adaptable interface between PLs and LMAs, determined through solid mechanics simulations and experiments across three PL configurations. Introducing a dual-layer adaptive protective layer (APL) aims to counter early PL detachment, triggered by lithium pitting. This APL, tailored to adjust to the evolving PL|LMA interface, features a high-SFE polymer inner layer to minimize interfacial energy with the LMA surface, coupled with an elastic outer polymer layer acting as a barrier against electrolyte and lithium polysulfides intrusion. Implementing APL on LMA significantly enhanced the cycling stability of Li-S batteries, effectively doubling their cycle life compared to unprotected LMA configurations, and outperforming single-layer PL setups.
Published Version
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