Molecularly woven artificial solid electrolyte interphase

Abstract

Lithium metal batteries (LMBs) are the most promising candidates for next-generation high-energy-density storage systems, but they suffer from destructive dendrite growth. Here we integrate cutting-edge molecular weaving technology into the fabrication of artificial solid electrolyte interphases (ASEI) to realize dendrite-free and long-lasting LMBs. Specifically, weaving polymer chains into a two-dimensional (2D) plane endows polymer network crystals with high strength and elasticity, and creates angstrom-level meshes for Li-ion transport and uniform deposition. As a result, related Li plating experiments remained stable at an unprecedentedly high current density of 5 mA cm−2. Furthermore, full cells with “woven” ASEI exhibited superior long-term cycling performance compared to existing 2D materials, achieving a capacity retention of 98% over 270 cycles under stringent testing conditions.