Study of Electrochemical Phenomena Observed at the Mg Metal/Electrolyte Interface

The interface between Mg metal and electrolyte is a key factor affecting Mg battery performance. Switchable interfacial phenomena, involving apparent surface electrochemical inhibition under open-circuit voltage and reactivation upon electrochemical polarization, were investigated with various Mg electrolyte systems, under both electrochemically static and dynamic conditions. Most notably, it was found that such behavior appears to be unique for the Mg system, implying that correct control of the interface is of considerable practical concern in Mg batteries. This new challenge must be addressed in order to achieve high-energy and high-durability rechargeable Mg batteries.