Lithium-Alloy Distribution Layer for Solid-State Anode Cycling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Lithium metal anodes in non-aqueous electrolyte secondary batteries suffer from dendrite formation, short circuits, and reduced efficiency due to lithium precipitation and dissolution, while all solid-state secondary batteries with lithium as a cathode active material face rapid capacity decline from localized lithium growth and isolation, leading to poor cycle characteristics.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a lithium distribution layer on the anode collector made of metals that alloy with lithium, such as zinc, germanium, tin, antimony, platinum, or gold, to uniformly precipitate and dissolve lithium, maintaining contact with the solid electrolyte and preventing dead lithium formation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If lithium is used as a cathode active material only (without anode lithium), then energy density is improved, but cycle characteristics deteriorate due to localized lithium growth and isolation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a lithium distribution layer with specific metal elements (Sn, Pb, In, Ga, Ge, Zn, Al, or their alloys) at the anode collector surface to create localized regions that promote uniform lithium precipitation. This local modification prevents localized lithium growth and isolation while maintaining the overall battery structure designed for high energy density
Solution Approach 2:
The lithium distribution layer acts as an intermediary between the anode collector and the solid electrolyte, facilitating uniform lithium ion distribution during charging. This intermediary layer prevents direct contact between lithium and the non-alloying anode collector material, thereby preventing dead lithium formation and improving cycle characteristics
2Quantity of substance
If lithium precipitates on anode collector made of non-alloying metals (e.g., nickel), then initial capacity is improved, but dead lithium forms due to localized growth and loss of contact with solid electrolyte
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the local quality of the anode collector surface by introducing a lithium distribution layer containing specific metals that form alloys with lithium. This local modification ensures uniform lithium precipitation and maintains electrical contact with the solid electrolyte, preventing dead lithium formation while preserving initial capacity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite structure consisting of the anode collector and the lithium distribution layer. The composite material combines the electrical conductivity of the anode collector with the lithium-alloying properties of the distribution layer, achieving both high initial capacity and good capacity retention
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 lithium distribution layer ensures uniform lithium precipitation and dissolution, maintaining battery capacity and improving cycle characteristics by minimizing dead lithium, thus enhancing the performance of all solid-state secondary batteries.
Implementation Method 1
a lithium distribution layer disposed on the anode collector, wherein the lithium distribution layer includes a metal capable of forming alloy with lithium
Data Source
AI summary
An anode for an all solid-state secondary battery, the anode including an anode collector, and coating lithium distribution layer disposed on the anode collector, wherein the lithium distribution layer includes a metal capable of forming an alloy with lithium.