A reaction-dissolution strategy for designing solid electrolyte interphases with stable energetics for lithium metal anodes

The spatial variations in chemical composition and transport proper-ties of the interphase formed on reactive metal electrodeposits dictate the stability and reversibility of electrochemical cells that use reactive metals as anodes. Here we report on the influence of carbonate and fluorinated electrolytes infused with ethers as addi-tives on the physical-chemical characteristics and reversibility of metallic lithium (Li) during early stages of electrodeposition and later stages of deep cycling of Li metal anodes. We show that a feasible strategy for achieving and sustaining kinetically enhanced interphases through the cycle life of Li electrodeposits is by simulta-neous use of sacrificial electrolyte components that undergo elec-troreduction to enrich the interphase with fluorinated species in tandem with cleaning electrolyte components that promote dissolu-tion and removal of less desirable carbonaceous compounds. We demonstrate that this approach translates to high electrochemical reversibility during deep cycling of the Li metal anode and improved performance of Li metal batteries.

Automated summary

This study reports on the influence of carbonate and fluorinated electrolytes infused with ethers on the physical-chemical characteristics and reversibility of metallic lithium during early stages of electrodeposition and later stages of deep cycling. The simultaneous use of sacrificial electrolyte components and cleaning electrolyte components enables the achievement and maintenance of a stable and reversible interphase on the active metal electrode.