Anode Prelithiation for Lithium-Ion Batteries: A Brief Review of Technologies Enabling Practical Industrial Applications and Large-Scale Fabrication

Abstract

Prelithiation is a key strategy for developing high‑performance lithium‑ion batteries (LIBs) with high energy density and long cycle life. It compensates for the lithium loss caused by solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) formation and improves the initial Coulombic efficiency (ICE). Anode prelithiation, which offers high reversible capacity and industrial applicability, is particularly promising compared with cathode or electrolyte prelithiation. However, a systematic comparison and practical guidance for selecting anode prelithiation routes in manufacturing are still lacking. This review focuses on industrially scalable anode prelithiation technologies, systematically categorizing their reaction mechanisms, implementation processes, and technical advantages. Special attention is paid to contact prelithiation routes using stabilized lithium metal powder (SLMP), microporous ultrathin lithium foil, and other routes, with comparisons in terms of precision, uniformity, and mass‑production compatibility. Additionally, this review analyzes the interfacial regulation mechanisms of different prelithiation strategies on graphite and silicon‑based anodes and discusses how prelithiation amount and lithium source structure influence electrode morphology, SEI composition, rate capability, and long‑term cycling stability. Based on these discussions, future directions for industrial‑grade anode prelithiation are proposed to guide the selection of optimal routes. It provides a rational foundation for guiding practical anode prelithiation techniques and accelerating the commercialization of next‑generation high performance LIBs.