Lithium Silicide Surface Enrichment: A Solution to Lithium Metal Battery. Issue 34 (5th July 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Tang, Wei; Yin, Xuesong; Kang, Sujin; Chen, Zhongxin; Tian, Bingbing; Teo, Siew Lang; Wang, Xiaowei; Chi, Xiao; Loh, Kian Ping; Lee, Hyun‐Wook; Zheng, Guangyuan Wesley
• Is Part Of: Advanced materials. Volume 30:Issue 34(2018)
• Page Start: n/a
• Page End: n/a
• Publication Date: 2018-07-05
• Subjects: high‐rate capability -- lithium metal -- surface enrichment -- uniform deposition; Materials -- Periodicals; Chemical vapor deposition -- Periodicals; 620.11
• DOI: 10.1002/adma.201801745
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0935-9648

Abstract

Abstract: The propensity of lithium dendrite formation during the charging process of lithium metal batteries is linked to inhomogeneity on the lithium surface layer. The high reactivity of lithium and the complex surface structure of the native layer create "hot spots" for fast dendritic growth. Here, it is demonstrated that a fundamental restructuring of the lithium surface in the form of lithium silicide (Li x Si) can effectively eliminate the surface inhomogeneity on the lithium surface. In situ optical microscopic study is carried out to monitor the electrochemical deposition of lithium on the Li x Si‐modified lithium electrodes and the bare lithium electrode. It is observed that a much more uniform lithium dissolution/deposition on the Li x Si‐modified lithium anode can be achieved as compared to the bare lithium electrode. Full cells paring the modified lithium anode with sulfur and LiFePO4 cathodes show excellent electrochemical performances in terms of rate capability and cycle stability. Compatibility of the anode enrichment method with mass production process also offers a practical way for enabling lithium metal anode for next‐generation lithium batteries. Abstract : A lithium silicide enriched protection layer is demonstrated to suppress the growth of lithium dendrites, uniformly distribute the applied current, and mitigate the parasitic side reactions in lithium metal batteries.