Abstract

Li metal batteries are being intensively investigated as a means to achieve higher energy density when compared with standard Li-ion batteries. However, the formation of dendritic and mossy Li metal microstructures at the negative electrode during stripping/plating cycles causes electrolyte decomposition and the formation of electronically disconnected Li metal particles. Here we investigate the use of a Cu current collector coated with a high dielectric BaTiO3 porous scaffold to suppress the electrical field gradients that cause morphological inhomogeneities during Li metal stripping/plating. Applying operando solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance measurements, we demonstrate that the high dielectric BaTiO3 porous scaffold promotes dense Li deposition, improves the average plating/stripping efficiency and extends the cycling life of the cell compared to both bare Cu and to a low dielectric scaffold material (i.e., Al2O3). We report electrochemical tests in full anode-free coin cells using a LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2-based positive electrode and a LiPF6-based electrolyte to demonstrate the cycling efficiency of the BaTiO3-coated Cu electrode.

Highlights

  • Li metal batteries are being intensively investigated as a means to achieve higher energy density when compared with standard Li-ion batteries

  • The formation of high surface area dendritic and mossy Li metal morphologies, in combination with the fierce reactivity of Li metal with conventional non-aqueous organic electrolytes, leads to an irreversible loss of active Li. This is associated with the formation of a solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) and the formation of electronically disconnected Li metal particles

  • Modelling of the early stages of nucleation and growth under heterogeneous electrodeposition indicates that surface inhomogeneities, particle size and wettability of the negative electrode play a critical role in facilitating dendrite formation[19]

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Summary

Introduction

Li metal batteries are being intensively investigated as a means to achieve higher energy density when compared with standard Li-ion batteries. BTO Li drops to zero, after the characteristic Sand’s time, plating becomes inhomogeneous and amplified growth of dendrites is induced[18] These features necessitate the adoption of strategies that enhance ion mobility, increase the transference number and introduce a large negative electrode surface area. Modelling of the early stages of nucleation and growth under heterogeneous electrodeposition indicates that surface inhomogeneities, particle size and wettability of the negative electrode play a critical role in facilitating dendrite formation[19]. This implies that dendrite growth can be steered by controlling these parameters as experimentally demonstrated[20]. To overcome or circumvent these issues, various strategies aimed at controlling the

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