Anode-Free Li-ion Batteries (AF-LIBs): Investigating Electrochemical Performance and Scalability for Next-Generation Energy Storage

Anode-free lithium batteries (AF-LIBs) have emerged as a promising alternative to conventional lithium-metal batteries due to their potential for higher energy densities, improved safety, and simplified manufacturing processes. However, their rapid development is hindered by poor charge/discharge cycles.

This is due to the side reactions of the conventional battery electrolytes to form dead/inactive lithium, thereby leading to dendritic Li plating.

I propose to investigate the use of High Concentrated Electrolytes (HCEs) and Multi-salt Electrolytes (MSEs) as novel approaches to achieve a robust and efficient plating and stripping of Li in AF-LIBs.

The high concentration and/or presence of additives in these proposed electrolytes can regulate the thermodynamics and kinetics of the Li deposition/striping process, thereby overcoming dendritic Li growth.

To achieve this objective, I will prepare novel HCEs, and MSEs and use various in-situ and operando structural and spectroscopic techniques to gain insights into the effects of the electrolyte types (different types of anion and cation) and composition on the lithium deposition and formation of SEI in AF-LIBs.

These fundamental insights will facilitate the development of AF-LIBs, which are among the next-generation advanced energy storage technologies that are pivotal to the realization of energy and environmental sustainability.