Recent smart lithium anode configurations for high-energy lithium metal batteries

Lithium (Li) metal has been regarded as a promising anode material for next-generation rechargeable batteries due to its high theoretical capacity and low reduction potential. However, the utilization of conventional planar Li foil might induce dendritic Li deposition, resulting in an unstable solid electrolyte interphase (SEI), low Coulombic efficiency, large volume change, finally poor cycling performance and severe safety issues. Smart Li anodes have a stable SEI layer, a high electroactive surface area, and large pore volume, providing uniform Li+ distribution, uniform Li nucleation and growth, and small volume change of the Li metal. What's more, the rationally designed Li anodes could adapt to the solid-state electrolytes and have a good Li anode-electrolyte contact. In this review, smart Li anode configurations are summarized in detail, including anodes decorated with an SEI film, host/Li composite anodes, and hybrid electrolyte/Li anodes for Li metal batteries suitable for liquid and solid-state electrolyte systems. In addition, the future trends and challenges for designing safe Li metal anodes with long lifespans for Li metal batteries are presented.

Automated summary

This article discusses the advantages and design configurations of smart Li metal anodes, including stable SEI layer, high electroactive surface area, and large pore volume for uniform Li+ distribution and small volume change, adapting to various electrolyte systems.