Molecular Interlocking Multidimensional Modulations of Cathode-Electrolyte Interface for Constructing High Energy Density Quasi-Solid-State Batteries

Abstract

Gel polymers are regarded as a promising candidate electrolyte for lithium-metal quasi-solid-state batteries, primarily due to their high ionic conductivity and solid-liquid synergistic properties. However, challenges such as interfacial side reactions, limitations in Li⁺ transport caused by interfacial issues, and leaching of transition metals from the cathode have yet to be effectively solved. Herein, a novel gel electrolyte modulation strategy based on electrostatic filler assembly is proposed to address the issues of ineffective capacity utilization and inadequate cycling stability of high-energy-density cathode materials in solid-state lithium-ion batteries. It constructs a 3D interpenetrating charge-bridge network that effectively tackles the phase-separation challenge between fillers and electrolytes at the molecular level. Meanwhile, the molecular interlocking structure effectively inhibits the electrolyte erosion. More critically, it optimizes and stabilizes the cathode-electrolyte interface film, which facilitates the conduction of Li⁺-ions through a size-sieving mechanism. Consequently, this strategy enables effective adaptation across diverse high-energy-density cathode materials with satisfactory capacity performance (170.4 mAh g⁻¹ at 4.5 V/1 C for LiNi_0.6Co_0.2Mn_0.2O₂ and 194.0 mAh g⁻¹ at 4.3 V/1 C for LiNi_0.9Co_0.08Mn_0.02O₂). This investigation offers a straightforward and effective reference for addressing the critical challenges of ionic transport and interface stabilization in the design of gel electrolytes.