Advancing Lithium Metal Batteries

Bin Liu, Ji-Guang Zhang, Wu Xu

Index: 10.1016/j.joule.2018.03.008

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Abstract

Considering the limited energy density of traditional graphite-anode-based lithium (Li)-ion batteries, alternative high-capacity anodes are greatly needed for the next-generation high-energy-density battery systems. In this regard, Li metal is well known to be one of the most promising anodes due to its ultrahigh capacity (3,860 mAh g−1) and the very low standard negative electrochemical potential (−3.040 V). However, dendrite growth and high reactivity of Li metal anodes result in low cycling efficiency and severe safety concerns. The recent revival of research and development on Li metal anodes has brought new, in-depth understanding and key experimental progress toward Li metal protection and enhanced performance of Li metal batteries. In this Perspective, we concisely review recent discoveries in this field and suggest possible new research directions for further development of Li metal batteries.