Self-Stabilized Solid Electrolyte Interface on a Host-Free Li-Metal Anode toward High Areal Capacity and Rate Utilization

Lithium metal has long been regarded as a promising anode for its high energy density and low reduction potential. However, infinite volume change and undesired lithium dendrite and parasitic reactions still block the practical application of lithium-metal anodes, despite persistent research. To address these tough issues, a self-stabilized solid electrolyte interface (SEI) formed in lithium bis(trifluoromethane sulphonyl)imide-vinylene carbonate electrolyte with high ionic conductivity, mechanical strength, and compact structure is reported for the first time, delivering rapid lithium-ion diffusion and suppressed anode/electrolyte interfacial reactions. This excellent SEI contributes to homogeneous lithium plating/stripping and a constant voltage over 4000 h even under harsh conditions. High rate performance with a current density of 20 mA cm(-2) and an areal capacity of 40 mA h cm(-2) has also been achieved. The self-stabilized SEI provides a promising strategy to tackle the challenges raised by the intrinsic properties of a lithium-metal anode.