Artificial Solid Electrolyte Interface Securing the Reversible Deposition of Lithium for High Performance Lithium Batteries

Abstract

Lithium batteries (LBs) are among the most promising energy storage devices due to their high theoretical energy density. However, Li dendrites, which may grow in an uncontrolled manner during cycling, can puncture the electrolyte in LBs and cause a short circuit and thermal runaway. In this study, by using a simple coating process, a new type of organic/inorganic composite protective layer is constructed on a current collector by scraping PVDF and Li3PO4 particles on the surface of a copper foil. The prepared composite coating shows excellent mechanical and electrochemical properties, and the ability to maintain a stable coulombic efficiency of 98% for lithium deposition and dissolution at 0.5 mA cm−2. This paper describes the mechanism of action of the prepared composite anode and proposes further improvements of the electrode.