Revealing the Dynamic Evolution of Electrolyte Configuration on the Cathode‐Electrolyte Interface by Visualizing (De) Solvation Processes

Abstract

AbstractElectrolyte engineering is crucial for improving cathode electrolyte interphase (CEI) to enhance the performance of lithium‐ion batteries, especially at high charging cut‐off voltages. However, typical electrolyte modification strategies always focus on the solvation structure in the bulk region, but consistently neglect the dynamic evolution of electrolyte solvation configuration at the cathode‐electrolyte interface, which directly influences the CEI construction. Herein, we reveal an anti‐synergy effect between Li+‐solvation and interfacial electric field by visualizing the dynamic evolution of electrolyte solvation configuration at the cathode‐electrolyte interface, which determines the concentration of interfacial solvated‐Li+. The Li+ solvation in the charging process facilitates the construction of a concentrated (Li+‐solvent/anion‐rich) interface and anion‐derived CEI, while the repulsive force derived from interfacial electric field induces the formation of a diluted (solvent‐rich) interface and solvent‐derived CEI. Modifying the electrochemical protocols and electrolyte formulation, we regulate the “inflection voltage” arising from the anti‐synergy effect and prolong the lifetime of the concentrated interface, which further improves the functionality of CEI architecture.