Achieving ultralong cycle life graphite binary intercalation in intermediate-concentration ether-based electrolyte for potassium-ion batteries

Controlling graphite intercalation is vital for its use in potassium ion batteries. Prior studies have revealed different intercalation behaviors between a dilute (1 M or less) vs. a concentrated (4 M or higher) ether-based electrolytes: the former forms solvent-co-intercalation while the latter shows binary intercalation. However, no study has been carried out on the intermediate concentrations. In this work, for the first time we report that in an intermediate concentration of electrolyte (2 mol KFSI per kg DME, 2 mol/kg) the electrochemical intercalation of K+ ions in graphite anode exhibits an interesting transition from the ternary to binary process with the increasing cycle number. Furthermore, the pre-formed anion-derived solid-electrolyte interphase on graphite anode in highly concentrated electrolyte was rather stable in 2 mol/kg of KFSI/DME electrolyte, and as a result the graphite anode achieved a two-year cycle life with an ultrahigh capacity retention of 96.7% based on binary intercalation.

Automated summary

In an intermediate concentration of electrolyte, the electrochemical intercalation of K+ ions in graphite anode exhibits a transition from ternary to binary process. The pre-formed anion-derived solid-electrolyte interphase on the graphite anode remains stable in the intermediate concentration of electrolyte, resulting in a two-year cycle life with a high capacity retention based on binary intercalation.