Fabrication of robust mechanical NiCo nanocubes for lithium metal anode with superior high rate performance

Abstract

The incorporation of a conductive three-dimensional (3D) scaffold in lithium metal anodes (LMAs) represents one of the most effective strategies for mitigating the uncontrolled formation of lithium dendrites. In this study, a promising substrate is fabricated by one-step co-deposition of NiCo nanocubes on carbon fiber composite (CFC). The bimetallic nanocubes offer an abundance of lithiophilicity sites and exhibit exceptional mechanical properties, thereby enhancing the stability of the electrode. By incorporating pyridine and pyrrole nitrogen, along with the synergistic effect of bimetal ions, the stability of solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) film is also enhanced, interface resistance is reduced, and uniform lithium metal deposition is achieved, effectively inhibiting dendrite growth especially at high current densities, with a lifespan up to 5660 h at ultra-high current density up to 40 mA cm−2. When paired with LiFePO4, the full battery exhibits satisfied dynamic stability and ultra-long cycle stability during repeated shelving, maintaining good capacity retention after 2890 cycles at 1C. This work provides a new idea for the practical application of lithium metal battery.