Structure-Controlled Li Metal Electrodes for Post-Li-Ion Batteries: Recent Progress and Perspectives

Li dendrite formation deteriorates cyclability and poses a safety hazard, hindering the widespread use of Li metal as the ultimate anode material for post-Li-ion batteries. Hence, the underlying reasons of this phenomenon and ways to suppress it have been extensively investigated, which has resulted in the establishment of corresponding theoretical models and their practical applications. Herein, several representative models (e.g., the Chazalviel model) of Li dendrite growth are explained, and the key technologies of structure-controlled framework and Li metal usage allowing to realize low local current densities and improved electrochemical performance are covered with the practical (dis)advantages due to material characteristics, electrode and cell design, and even manufacturing processes. In particular, the use of Li metal powder and patterned Li metal is discussed in conjunction with corresponding applications (e.g., protection layers, functional additives, and salts in the electrolyte) and advantages.