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Title: Electrocatalytic transformation of HF impurity to H2 and LiF in lithium-ion batteries

Journal Article · · Nature Catalysis

The formation of solid electrolyte interphase on graphite anodes plays a key role in the efficiency of Li-ion batteries. However, to date, fundamental understanding of the formation of LiF as one of the main solid electrolyte interphase components in hexafluorophosphate-based electrolytes remains elusive. In this paper, we present experimental and theoretical evidence that LiF formation is an electrocatalytic process that is controlled by the electrochemical transformation of HF impurity to LiF and H2. Although the kinetics of HF dissociation and the concomitant production of LiF and H2 is dependent on the structure and nature of surface atoms, the underlying electrochemistry is the same. The morphology, and thus the role, of the LiF formed is strongly dependent on the nature of the substrate and HF inventory, leading to either complete or partial passivation of the interface. Finally, our finding is of general importance and may lead to new opportunities for the improvement of existing, and design of new, Li-ion technologies.

Research Organization:
Argonne National Laboratory (ANL), Argonne, IL (United States); BMW Group, Munich (Germany)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE Office of Science (SC), Basic Energy Sciences (BES); BMW Technology Corporation (Germany)
Grant/Contract Number:
AC02-06CH11357
OSTI ID:
1433882
Journal Information:
Nature Catalysis, Vol. 1, Issue 4; ISSN 2520-1158
Publisher:
Springer NatureCopyright Statement
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English
Citation Metrics:
Cited by: 100 works
Citation information provided by
Web of Science

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A Comparison of Formation Methods for Graphite//LiFePO 4 Cells journal January 2019
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Fading Mechanisms and Voltage Hysteresis in FeF 2 -NiF 2 Solid Solution Cathodes for Lithium and Lithium-Ion Batteries journal January 2019
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Temperature Dependence of Oxygen Release from LiNi 0.6 Mn 0.2 Co 0.2 O 2 (NMC622) Cathode Materials for Li-Ion Batteries journal January 2018
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