Na-K Alloy Anode for High-Performance Solid-State Sodium Metal Batteries.

Cheng, Yifeng; Li, Menghao; Yang, Xuming; Lu, Xinzhen; Wu, Duojie; Zhang, Qing; Zhu, Yuanmin; Gu, Meng · Nano Lett · 2022

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

Rechargeable solid-state Na metal batteries (SSNMB) can offer high operational safety and energy density. However, poor solid-solid contact between the electrodes and the electrolyte can dramatically increase interfacial resistance and Na dendrite formation, even at low current rates. Therefore, we developed a carbon-fiber-supported liquid Na-K alloy anode that ensures close anode-electrolyte contact, enabling superior cycle stability and rate capability. We then demonstrated the first cryogenic transmission electron microscopy (cryo-TEM) characterization of an SSNMB, capturing the evolution of solid-electrolyte interphase (SEI) and revealing both crystalline and amorphous phases, which could facilitate ion transport and prevent continuous side reactions. By enhancing contact between the Na-K alloy and solid-state electrolyte, these symmetric cells are capable of cycling for over 800 h without notable increased polarization and enable an unprecedented critical current density (CCD) at 40 mA cm<sup>-2</sup>. Our liquid Na-K alloy approach offers a promising strategic avenue toward commercial SSNMBs.