Quantifying the Correlation Between Capacity Utilization and Electrolyte Dosage for Ultrahigh-Energy-Density 769 Wh Kg<sup>-1</sup> Rechargeable Lithium Metal Batteries.

Zhang, Shuo; Lu, Yuyang; Yan, Chong; Liao, Xiangbiao; Zhao, Chen-Zi; Zhao, Jun-Wei; Dong, Zhiyuan; Zhu, Zhenwei et al. · Adv Mater · 2026

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

The pursuit of high-energy-density lithium metal batteries requires simultaneous optimization of electrode architecture, electrolyte formulation, and interfacial stability. Here, we establish a fundamental parameter g(σ<sub>e</sub>, D<sub>e</sub>) that quantifies the relationship between electrolyte dosage and capacity utilization in ultra-thick electrodes (>100.0 µm), enabling precise determination of the minimal electrolyte requirement (1.1 g Ah<sup>-1</sup>). Through systematic investigation of electrolyte compatibility with high-loading cathodes (> 10.0 mAh cm<sup>-2</sup>) at high voltages (4.8 V), we develop an optimized formulation that forms stable interfaces while suppressing parasitic reactions. By integrating these advances-including a lightweight lithium metal anode-we demonstrate a 54.2 Ah pouch cell achieving 769 Wh kg<sup>-1</sup>, representing a 150% improvement over conventional lithium-ion batteries. This work provides both theoretical and practical frameworks for engineering next-generation batteries through electrolyte minimization and interface stabilization.