PNNL

Abstract

Conventional rechargeable lithium (Li)–ion batteries generally use graphite as the anode, where Li ions are stored in the layered graphite. However, the use of Li metal as the anode is now being reconsidered. These next-generation battery technologies could potentially double the cell energy of conventional Li-ion batteries. Rechargeable Li metal batteries were commercialized more than four decades ago but were in use only briefly because of safety concerns. With the advancements of electrolyte, electrode architecture, and characterization techniques in recent years, a better fundamental understanding of the interfacial reactions during charging and discharging that dictate cell performance has developed and inspired a reevaluation of the use of Li metal anodes in rechargeable batteries.