AlF3-Modified carbon nanofibers as a multifunctional 3D interlayer for stable lithium metal anodes

A versatile interlayer in which AlF3 particles are embedded within carbon nanofibers (AlF3@CNFs) is reported to induce controllable Li+ deposition and achieve a dendrite free Li metal anode. Due to the AlF3 reducing Li nucleation overpotential and CNFs providing high Young's moduli up to 47 GPa, a high Coulombic efficiency (97.2%) and a long lifespan (900 h) are achieved in the carbonate-based electrolyte. A long cycling life is also realized by using interlayer-protected lithium anodes in Li-S batteries.