Long-Life Quasi-Solid-State Anode-Free Batteries Enabled by Li Compensation Coupled Interface Engineering.

Abstract

Initially, anode-free Li metal batteries present a promising power source that merges the high production feasibility of Li-ion batteries with the superb energy capabilities of Li-metal batteries. However, their application confronts formidable challenges of extremely short lifespan due to the inadequacy of zero-Li-excess cell configuration against irreversible Li loss. A Li compensation coupled interface engineering strategy is reported for realizing long-life quasi-solid-state anode-free batteries. The Li₂ S is utilized as a sacrificial Li supplement to effectively counterbalance irreversible Li loss without damage to cell chemistry. Meanwhile, it demonstrates remarkable efficacy in establishing a robust yet slender inorganic-organic hybrid solid-state interphase for inhibiting cell degradation by dead and dendritic Li. This strategy enables quasi-solid-state anode-free batteries with a long lifespan of 500 cycles. The Ah-scale quasi-solid-state pouch cells, featuring a high-loading LiFePO₄ cathode and lean gel polymer electrolyte, exhibit a high specific energy of 300 Wh kg_cell ^-1 . This achievement translates into an improvement of 46% in gravimetric energy and 94% in volumetric energy compared to LiFePO₄ ||graphite batteries while outperforming LiFePO₄ ||Li-metal batteries by 22-47% in volumetric energy. Such quasi-solid-state anode-free cells also demonstrate good safety, showcasing remarkable resistance against nail penetration in ambient air without failure, smoke, or fire accidents.