Recent Progress on Nanomodification Applied in Anodes of Rechargeable Li Metal Batteries

Abstract

Lithium metal anodes (LMAs) are considered one of the most promising anode materials for lithium metal batteries due to their high theoretical specific capacity (3860 mAh g −1 ) and low anode potential (−3.04 V compared to the standard hydrogen potential). However, the further application of lithium metal batteries is hindered by problems such as lithium dendrite growth and volume change of the anode. Fortunately, to address these issues in lithium metal batteries, various applications of nanomodification technologies have been proposed for lithium metal anodes, such as using nanomaterials and constructing nanostructures. These nanomodification technologies have standardized the plating/stripping behavior of lithium, significantly improving the electrochemical performance and lithium morphology of LMAs. This brief review systematically summarizes the latest research progress in LMA nanomodification technology to inhibit lithium dendrite growth. First, the problems of LMAs in practical applications are analyzed. Then, we summarize the forward-looking strategies and the latest research progress based on nanomaterials and nanostructures from the perspectives of current collectors, protection of the interface layer, separators, and all-solid-state lithium batteries. Finally, the future development of nanomodification technology for the protection of lithium metal batteries is summarized and prospected.

A “flotation” strategy for tailoring the solid electrolyte interphase on 3D composite Li anodes

“…18–22 This method effectively mitigates the Li dendrite growth, leveraging the high surface area of 3D hosts to decrease the localized current density and provide sufficient space to accommodate volumetric changes during Li plating/stripping. 23–28 Although relatively long lifespans and reduced overpotentials are achieved, the long-term plating/stripping behaviors are unsatisfactory due to the weak lithophilicity between the 3D hosts and Li atoms. Furthermore, the formation of the heterogeneous SEI with uneven Li + flux on 3D composite Li metal anodes facilitates Li dendrite growth.…”