Construction of a dense and N-rich solid electrolyte interface for dendrite-free lithium metal batteries

Abstract

Lithium (Li) metal anode has attracted extensive research interest, while lithium dendrites and the resulting irreversible effects have restricted its development. In this study, a thin and dense solid electrolyte interface is constructed by introducing 3-(1-pyridinio)-1-propane sulfonate (PPS), a pyridine functional groups additive in DME/DOL based electrolyte to inhibit the lithium dendrite growth. The preferential decomposition of PPS has resulted in a reduction of gas generation. Subsequently, this process leads to forming of an N-rich solid electrolyte interface, which has been found to cause a decrease in polarization potential and change the behavior of lithium deposition from dendrites to a more cellular Li metal surface. As a result, our proposed electrolyte provides multiple functionalities, including remarkable rate capability, cyclic stability, and coulombic efficiency. Significantly, Li | Li symmetrical cells exhibited a stable cycle over 1200 h at a high current density and capacity of 5 mA cm−2/15 mAh cm−2. We are optimistic that our proposed method can be employed in future research to identify electrolytes appropriate for use in lithium metal anodes.