Role of interlayers in operando Li plating and stripping processes of zero-excess solid-state batteries using a virtual electrode approach

New battery technologies are required to overcome the limitations of current Li ion batteries (LIB) concerning safety, energy density and environmental/recycling issues [1]. Solid state batteries (SSBs) are considered particularly promising, owing to their intrinsic higher energy density, increased safety, and improved recyclability. In a SSB, the anode is made of Li metal, with a high theoretical capacity, and a large negative potential. However, the Li metal anodes are difficult to handle and the workability of thin Li foils results in high fabrication costs [2].
In anode-less solid-state lithium batteries, also known as zero excess solid state batteries (ZESSBs), the anode is formed in situ at the interface between the solid state electrolyte (SSE) and the anode current collector (CC). ZESSBs have an improved energy density, increased safety, and a prolonged operation life [3], making them a potential option for next-generation energy storage devices, particularly in the mobile industry [4].
Here, we aim to develop novel preparation procedures of the model cells to modify the growth habit of the anodes The objective of this project is to study and understand the modification of Li anodes nucleation and growth mode by using an interlayer between the SSE and the CC. The presence of an interlayer during the first plating will permit tuning the balance between the growth mechanisms to a regime where the Li atoms coming from the electrochemical current relax preferentially via wetting and alloying. Employing this novel approach we expect that Li storage in a ZESSB can be safely improved, and long-lasting cells with strong mechanical stability can be obtained.