Exploring the Active Lithium Loss in Anode-Free Lithium Metal Batteries: Mechanisms, Challenges, and Strategies

Anode-free lithium metal batteries (AFLMBs), also known as lithium metal batteries (LMBs) with zero excess lithium, have garnered significant attention due to their substantially higher energy density compared to conventional lithium metal anodes, improved safety characteristics, and lower production costs. However, the current cycling stability of AFLMBs faces formidable challenges primarily caused by significant lithium loss associated with the deposition of lithium metal. Therefore, this review focuses on the crucial aspects of lithium metal nucleation and growth on the anode side. Respectively, aiming to provide an in-depth understanding of the deposition mechanisms, comprehensively summarize the corresponding scientific influencing factors, and analyze specific strategies for addressing these issues through the integration of relevant exemplary cases. Importantly, this review endeavors to offer a profound explication of the scientific essence and intricate mechanisms that underlie the diverse modification strategies. This review possesses the inherent capacity to greatly facilitate the progress and enlightenment of research in this field, offering a valuable resource for the researchers.