3D Printed Lithium-Metal Full Batteries Based on a High-Performance Three-Dimensional Anode Current Collector

A three-dimensional (3D) printing method has been developed for preparing a lithium anode base on 3D-structured copper mesh current collectors. Through in situ observations and computer simulations, the deposition behavior and mechanism of lithium ions in the 3D copper mesh current collector are clarified. Benefiting from the characteristics that the large pores can transport electrolyte and provide space for dendrite growth, and the small holes guide the deposition of dendrites, the 3D Cu mesh anode exhibits excellent deposition and stripping capability (50 mAh cm(-2)), high-rate capability (50 mA cm(-2)), and a long-term stable cycle (1000 h). A full lithium battery with a LiFePO4 cathode based on this anode exhibits a good cycle life. Moreover, a 3D fully printed lithium-sulfur battery with a 3D printed high-load sulfur cathode can easily charge mobile phones and light up 51 LED indicators, which indicates the great potential for the practicability of lithium-metal batteries with the characteristic of high energy densities. Most importantly, this unique and simple strategy is also able to solve the dendrite problem of other secondary metal batteries. Furthermore, this method has great potential in the continuous mass production of electrodes.

Automated summary

A 3D printing method has been developed to prepare a lithium anode on structured copper mesh current collectors, showing excellent deposition and stripping capability, high-rate capability, and long-term stable cycle performance. This method also has the potential for mass production of electrodes, showing promising practical applications for high energy density lithium-metal batteries.