All-solid-state lithium-ion batteries (ASSLIBs) based
on sulfide
solid-state electrolytes (SSEs) are extensively used due to their
high energy density. However, the interface instability between sulfide
SSEs and lithium (Li) metal often results in the uncontrolled growth
of Li dendrite, causing battery failure. Here, a protective layer
constituted by a carbon–iodine–silver (C-I2-Ag) composite was introduced between the sulfide SSEs and Li metal,
establishing a stable Li/SSEs interface. Carbon (C) can firmly confine
iodine (I2) by forming C–I bonds and acting as a
conductive carrier. In situ-formed lithium iodide
(LiI) presents inherent stability with Li and SSEs to overcome the
interfacial parasitic reactions. The alloy between Li and Ag further
eliminates the Li dendrites to ensure the long durability of ASSLIBs.
The ASSLIBs incorporating the protective layer can operate reliably
at 0.15 mA cm–2 for over 1500 h at 25 °C without
encountering a short circuit. A symmetric battery’s critical
current density can be as high as 4.6 mA cm–2. In
addition, compared with the Li metal battery lacking an interfacial
layer, after 110 cycles, the capacity retention rate of the ASSLIBs
containing C-I2-Ag was as high as 93.55%. This advancement
paves the way for the continued progress of ASSLIBs with high energy
density.