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Resolving Current-Dependent Regimes of Electroplating Mechanisms for Fast Charging Lithium Metal Anodes

Journal Article · · Nano Letters
 [1];  [2];  [3];  [3];  [3];  [3];  [3];  [3];  [3];  [3];  [3];  [3];  [3];  [3];  [4]
  1. Stanford University, CA (United States); Stanford University
  2. Stanford University, CA (United States); University of California, Los Angeles, CA (United States)
  3. Stanford University, CA (United States)
  4. Stanford University, CA (United States); SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory (SLAC), Menlo Park, CA (United States). Stanford Institute for Materials and Energy Science (SIMES)
Poor fast-charge capabilities limit the usage of rechargeable Li metal anodes. Understanding the connection between charging rate, electroplating mechanism, and Li morphology could enable fast-charging solutions. In this report we develop a combined electroanalytical and nanoscale characterization approach to resolve the current-dependent regimes of Li plating mechanisms and morphology. Measurement of Li+ transport through the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) shows that low currents induce plating at buried Li||SEI interfaces, but high currents initiate SEI-breakdown and plating at fresh Li||electrolyte interfaces. The latter pathway can induce uniform growth of {110}-faceted Li at extremely high currents, suggesting ion-transport limitations alone are insufficient to predict Li morphology. At battery relevant fast-charging rates, SEI-breakdown above a critical current density produces detrimental morphology and poor cyclability. Thus, prevention of both SEI-breakdown and slow ion-transport in the electrolyte is essential. This mechanistic insight can inform further electrolyte engineering and customization of fast-charging protocols for Li metal batteries.
Research Organization:
SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory (SLAC), Menlo Park, CA (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
National Science Foundation (NSF); USDOE Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE), Office of Sustainable Transportation. Vehicle Technologies Office (VTO); USDOE Office of Science (SC), Basic Energy Sciences (BES). Materials Sciences & Engineering Division (MSE)
Grant/Contract Number:
AC02-76SF00515
OSTI ID:
2203181
Journal Information:
Nano Letters, Journal Name: Nano Letters Journal Issue: 20 Vol. 22; ISSN 1530-6984
Publisher:
American Chemical SocietyCopyright Statement
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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