Constructing none co-intercalation ether-based electrolytes for high-performance lithium-ion batteries

Lithium-ion batteries, as a new generation of high-energy-density storage devices, face limitations in low-temperature performance due to scientific challenges such as hindered Li⁺ transport kinetics, increased desolvation energy barriers, and risks of solid-liquid interface failure. To address these issues, this study developed a novel ether-based electrolyte formulation based on a weakly solvating strategy, which exhibits wide-temperature-range adaptability. This achievement was realized through interfacial optimization combined with solvation structure reconfiguration, enabling highly stable energy storage at low temperatures. Electrochemical data demonstrate that the Li||Gr (Graphite) half-cell assembled with this electrolyte delivers a high initial reversible discharge capacity of 359.2 mAh g⁻¹ at ambient temperature. It retains 90.52 % capacity after 200 cycles at 0.1 A g⁻¹ and maintains a reversible capacity of 240 mAh g⁻¹ even at −20 °C. A synergistic analysis of interfacial chemistry and bulk phase transport reveals excellent compatibility between the electrolyte and the graphite anode, along with the formation of a uniform and stable solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) film on the graphite surface. The unique solvation structure distribution significantly enhances ion diffusion kinetics and improves electrolyte conductivity.