Multifunctional Electrode Design Consisting of 3D Porous Separator Modulated with Patterned Anode for High-Performance Dual-Ion Batteries

Searching for low-cost and high-capacity electrode materials such as metal anodes is of important significance for the development of new generation rechargeable batteries. However, metal anodes always suffer from severe volume expansion/contraction during a repeated electrochemical alloying/dealloying process. In this study, a novel concept about modifying metal-anodes-based battery construction with a multifunctional electrode (ME) design is provided. The ME consists of a 3D porous separator that is modulated with a patterned aluminum anode, which simultaneously works as a current collector, anode material, and separator in a dual-ion battery (DIB). The 3D porous separator not only enables the ME to possess significantly improved electrolyte uptake and retention capabilities, but also acts as a protecting layer to restrict the surface pulverization of the Al anode. The ME-DIB displays remarkably enhanced cell performances, including excellent cycling stability with 92.4% capacity retention after 1000 cycles at a current density of 2 C, and superior rate performance with 80.7% capacity retention at 10 C.