January 30, 2025
Journal Article

Important role of ion flux regulated by separators in lithium metal batteries

Abstract

Polyolefin separators are the most commonly adopted separators in rechargeable lithium (Li)-ion batteries. Despite being widely adopted, the influence of different polyolefin separators on the performance of Li metal batteries (LMBs) has been largely neglected. By performing particle injection simulations on the reconstructed three-dimensional pores of different polyolefin separators, it was revealed that the pore structure of the separator had a significant impact on the ion flux distribution, the Li deposition behavior and consequently, the cycle life of LMBs. It was also discovered that the homogeneity factor (h) of Li ion toward Li metal electrode was positively correlated to the longevity and reproducibility of LMBs. This work not only emphasizes the importance of pore structure of polyolefin separators, but also provides an economic and effective method to screen favorable separators for LMBs.

Published: January 30, 2025

Citation

Jia H., C. Zeng, H. Lim, A. Simmons, Y. Zhang, M. Weber, and M.H. Engelhard, et al. 2024. Important role of ion flux regulated by separators in lithium metal batteries. Advanced Materials 36, no. 19:Art No. 2311312. PNNL-SA-191844. doi:10.1002/adma.202311312