Tang, F.; Li, D.; Liu, X.; Huang, H.; Wu, C.; Hilger, A.; Markötter, H.; Wilde, F.; Manke, I.; Sun, F.; Chen, L.: Exploring optimal Li composite electrode anodes for lithium metal batteries through in situ X-ray computed tomography. Energy Storage Materials 72 (2024), p. 103746/1-12
10.1016/j.ensm.2024.103746
Abstract:
The uncontrolled Li dissolution/deposition dynamics and rapid Li pulverizations hinder the widespread deployment of Li metal batteries (LMB). Designing a Li composite electrode possessing a mechanically robust and lithiophilic three-dimensional (3D) framework represents a promising strategy to address these challenges. This study involves the preparation of three uniquely tailored Li-B-Mg composites using a combined metallurgical process of melting, casting, and rolling, along with the synergistic application of in situ X-ray computed to- mography (CT) and post-mortem failure analysis to explore the most promising composite electrode candidate for LMBs. During the in-depth investigation, the optimal 70Li-B-Mg composite electrode stands out due to its robust skeleton fiber structure, uniform Li dissolution/deposition characteristics and high capacity of free-Li. Its promising prospects for enabling high-performance LMBs are showcased by the superior performance of the built Li||O2, Li||LiFePO4, Li||NCM622 and Li||NCM811 battery systems. This work offers a novel approach for exploring universally applicable and robust Li composite electrodes to realize high-performance LMBs using in situ CT analysis.