Lithium-coated polymeric matrix as a minimum volume-change and dendrite-free lithium metal anode

Yayuan Liu, Dingchang Lin, Zheng Liang, Jie Zhao, Kai Yan and Yi Cui ()
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Yayuan Liu: Stanford University
Dingchang Lin: Stanford University
Zheng Liang: Stanford University
Jie Zhao: Stanford University
Kai Yan: Stanford University
Yi Cui: Stanford University

Nature Communications, 2016, vol. 7, issue 1, 1-9

Abstract: Abstract Lithium metal is the ideal anode for the next generation of high-energy-density batteries. Nevertheless, dendrite growth, side reactions and infinite relative volume change have prevented it from practical applications. Here, we demonstrate a promising metallic lithium anode design by infusing molten lithium into a polymeric matrix. The electrospun polyimide employed is stable against highly reactive molten lithium and, via a conformal layer of zinc oxide coating to render the surface lithiophilic, molten lithium can be drawn into the matrix, affording a nano-porous lithium electrode. Importantly, the polymeric backbone enables uniform lithium stripping/plating, which successfully confines lithium within the matrix, realizing minimum volume change and effective dendrite suppression. The porous electrode reduces the effective current density; thus, flat voltage profiles and stable cycling of more than 100 cycles is achieved even at a high current density of 5 mA cm−2 in both carbonate and ether electrolyte. The advantages of the porous, polymeric matrix provide important insights into the design principles of lithium metal anodes.

Date: 2016
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DOI: 10.1038/ncomms10992

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