Spatially Confined LiF Nanoparticles in an Aligned Polymer Matrix as the Artificial SEI Layer for Lithium Metal Anodes.

Yu, Tianyang; Zhao, Teng; Zhang, Nanxiang; Xue, Tianyang; Chen, Yi; Ye, Yusheng; Wu, Feng; Chen, Renjie · Nano Lett · 2023

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

The uncontrollable growth of lithium (Li) dendrites and the instability of the Li/electrolyte interface hinder the development of next-generation rechargeable lithium metal batteries. The combination of inorganic nanoparticles and polymers as the artificial SEI layer shows great potential in regulating lithium-ion flux. Here, we design spatially confined LiF nanoparticles in an aligned polymer matrix as the artificial SEI layer. A high dielectric polymer matrix homogenizes the electric field near the surface of lithium metal. Aligned pores with LiF nanoparticles promote the lithium-ion transport across the artificial SEI layer. The synergistic effect of the highly polar β-phase PVDF and LiF nanoparticles provides high stability over 900 h for the Li//Li symmetrical cell. Besides, a Li//LFP full battery equipped with this artificial layer shows good performance in the commercial carbonate electrolyte, demonstrating the great potential of this protective film in lithium metal batteries.