Inorganic-Enriched Solid Electrolyte Interphases: A Key to Enhance Sodium-Ion Battery Cycle Stability?

Abstract

The characteristics of solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) at both the cathode and anode interfaces are crucial for the performance of sodium-ion batteries (SIBs). The research demonstrates the merits of a balanced organic component, specifically the organic sodium alkyl sulfonate (ROSO₂Na) featured in this work, in conjunction with the inorganic sodium fluoride (NaF), to enhance the interfacial stability. Using a customized electrolyte, it has optimized the interphase, curbing excess NaF production, and created a thin and uniform NaF/ROSO₂Na-rich SEI layer. It offers exceptional protection against interface deterioration, transition metal dissolution, and concurrently ensures a consistent reduction in interfacial impedance. This creative approach results in a substantial improvement in the performance of both the Na_0.9Ni_0.4Fe_0.2Mn_0.4O₂ cathode and the hard carbon anode. The cathode demonstrates remarkable average Coulombic efficiency exceeding 99.9% and a capacity retention of 81% after 500 cycles. Furthermore, the Ah-level pouch cell has shown outstanding performance with an 87% capacity retention after 400 cycles. Moving beyond the prevailing focus on inorganic-rich SEI, these results highlight the effectiveness of the customized organic-inorganic hybrid SEI formulation in improving SIB technology, offering an adaptable solution that ensures superior interfacial stability.