(Invited, Digital Presentation) Heterogeneities at Solid/Solid Interfaces

Abstract

Solid-state lithium metal batteries hold the potential to enhance the energy density, power density and safety of conventional lithium-ion batteries. Interface stability and performance of solid-state batteries is predicated on the coupled set of electrochemical-mechanical-transport interactions that underlie the solid-solid interfaces within the system. Microstructure of the solid-state cathode dictates the distribution of percolation pathways, reaction kinetics and evolution of distinct internal resistance modes. Morphological response of the anode-electrolyte interface is influenced by various aspects including the presence of defects, grain boundaries and mechanical/transport properties of the solid electrolyte and lithium. In this presentation, the mechanistic role of heterogeneities on the morphological stability of the anode, onset of mechanical/thermal hot spots and electrochemical response of the cathode will be analyzed. The implications of heterogeneous kinetic-transport interactions and chemo-mechanics interplay on the performance and failure modes in solid-state batteries will be delineated.