1. Cryogenic Laser Ablation Reveals Short-Circuit Mechanism in Lithium Metal Batteries
- Author
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Jungjohann, Katherine L, Gannon, Renae N, Goriparti, Subrahmanyam, Randolph, Steven J, Merrill, Laura C, Johnson, David C, Zavadil, Kevin R, Harris, Stephen J, and Harrison, Katharine L
- Subjects
Engineering ,Materials Engineering ,Chemical Sciences ,Physical Chemistry ,Affordable and Clean Energy ,Chemical sciences - Abstract
The dramatic 50% improvement in energy density that Li-metal anodes offer in comparison to graphite anodes in conventional lithium (Li)-ion batteries cannot be realized with current cell designs because of cell failure after a few cycles. Often, failure is caused by Li dendrites that grow through the separator, leading to short circuits. Here, we used a new characterization technique, cryogenic femtosecond laser cross sectioning and subsequent scanning electron microscopy, to observe the electroplated Li-metal morphology and the accompanying solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) into and through the intact coin cell battery's separator, gradually opening pathways for soft-short circuits that cause failure. We found that separator penetration by the SEI guided the growth of Li dendrites through the cell. A short-circuit mechanism via SEI growth at high current density within the separator is provided. These results will inform future efforts for separator and electrolyte design for Li-metal anodes.
- Published
- 2021