A Novel Kinetically-Driven Approach to Forming Columnar {110}-textured Lithium Metal Anodes with Extended Cycle Life

Abstract

Constructing {110}-textured lithium (Li) metal anodes is a promising strategy to extend battery life. While preparation of such anodes has been the subject of a few studies, their focus has been exclusively on thermodynamically-driven (equilibrium) strategies. Through a systematic screening of bath conditions, the study reported here identifies a novel kinetically-driven protocol that enhances the volume fraction of {110} texture by more than fivefold compared to equilibrium approaches. The protocol involves Li deposition at high current densities or low temperatures in a commonly used LiNO₃-containing ether-based electrolyte. Columnar {110}-oriented grains are formed through a growth rate selection process arising from the stronger electronic coupling and faster electron transfer rate between Li(110) and Li⁺ cations compared to other lattice planes. LiNO₃ plays a crucial role by inhibiting the deposition on the Li(110) plane less than the other planes. Simple bath condition adjustments yield optimized {110}-textured Li anodes with improved plating/stripping homogeneity that suppresses dendrite formation and electrolyte consumption, resulting in extended cycle life in lean-electrolyte full cells. This kinetically-driven approach offers mechanistic insight into Li texture formation and a promising route to high-performance Li metal anodes.