Epitaxial Induced Plating Current-Collector Lasting Lifespan of Anode-Free Lithium Metal Battery

Anode-free designs can obtain the ultimate energy density of lithium metal batteries. However, without a continuous Li supply from the anode side, it is much more challenging to achieve high capacity retention with a competitive energy density. Here, the lifespan of an anode-free Li metal battery is prolonged by applying an epitaxial induced plating current-collector (E-Cu). The functional layer on E-Cu initiates Li storage by an alloying approach, forming an epitaxial induce layer, which exhibits speedy surface diffusion for of Li-ions, resulting in the block like epitaxial growth of Li. Moreover, this alloying process also promotes the formation of a LiF-rich solid electrolyte interphase (SEI), which is very useful for uniform Li plating. Due to the benefits of epitaxial Li plating and LiF-rich SEI, the initial coulombic efficiency of the E-Cu/Li asymmetric cell increases from 93.24 to 98.24%, and the capacity retention of anode-free NCM811/E-Cu pouch cell increases from 66 to 84% with a remarkable energy density of 420 Wh kg(-1) in the condition of limited electrolyte addition (E/C ratio of 2 g Ah(-1)). This strategy is promising in the development of high energy batteries in extending their lifespans.

Automated summary

The lifespan of an anode-free Li metal battery has been prolonged by applying an epitaxial induced plating current-collector (E-Cu) in this study, promoting Li storage and forming a LiF-rich solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) beneficial for uniform Li plating. This strategy has increased the initial coulombic efficiency and capacity retention of the battery, achieving a remarkable energy density under limited electrolyte addition conditions.