Functional Electrode Layer for Dense Lithium Deposition Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Anode-free and solid-state batteries face issues with lithium dendrite formation and undesirable Solid Electrolyte Interface (SEI) growth, leading to rapid capacity loss due to electrolyte side reactions.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a functional layer is applied to the negative electrode, comprising a lithiophilic metal or metalloid material and an inorganic compound, which forms a protective alloy and electrolyte interface layer upon charging and discharging, stabilizing the electrode and facilitating dense lithium deposition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a conventional anode-free battery or solid-state battery is used, then the battery structure is simple and energy density is high, but lithium dendrites form on the negative electrode during charging and discharging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a functional layer as an intermediary between the negative electrode and the electrolyte. This functional layer mediates the interaction between lithium ions and the negative electrode, guiding uniform lithium deposition and preventing dendrite formation while maintaining high energy density of the anode-free battery structure
2Duration of action of moving object
If charging and discharging continue without stabilization, then the battery operates continuously, but undesirable Solid Electrolyte Interface (SEI) grows and electrolyte side reactions occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful side reactions into a beneficial process by designing the functional layer to guide the formation of a desirable SEI. The controlled reaction between the functional layer and electrolyte produces a stable interface layer that protects the negative electrode, transforming the normally harmful SEI formation into a protective mechanism that enables continuous operation
3Productivity
If the negative electrode surface is left untreated, then the battery structure remains simple, but dense lithium deposition cannot be achieved and capacity declines rapidly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality modification by adding a functional layer only to the negative electrode surface where lithium deposition occurs. This localized modification creates specific sites for uniform lithium nucleation and growth, improving capacity retention without significantly increasing overall device complexity
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The functional layer significantly extends battery life by creating a beneficial electrolyte interface and protective buffer layer, enhancing lithium deposition and maintaining high coulombic efficiency and areal capacity over multiple charge/discharge cycles.
Implementation Method 1
forming a metal/alloy layer on the surface of the negative electrode corresponding to the surface of the functional layer precursor and the composition A of the functional layer precursor AxBy
Implementation Method 2
forming an electrolyte interface layer on the surface of the metal/alloy layer, B, and/or its alloy compound
Implementation Method 3
discharging the positive electrode and the negative electrode of the battery so that the metal/alloy layer is transformed into a functional layer
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a method for stabilizing an electrode using a functional layer, the electrode and applications thereof, which generates a beneficial electrolyte interface layer on the surface of the negative electrode after charging and discharging, and a protective buffer layer to form an alloy that facilitates the deposition of dense lithium on the negative current collector, significantly extending the life of the battery.