Li-Zn alloy patch for defect-free polymer interface film enables excellent protection effect towards stable Li metal anode

• Published in: Chinese chemical letters 2024-10, Vol.35 (10), p.109489, Article 109489
• Main Authors: Wang, Zihao, Xue, Jing, Song, Zhicui, Xing, Jianxiong, Zhou, Aijun, Ma, Jianmin, Li, Jingze
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Hybrid film; Li metal anode; Li-Zn alloy; LiPAA; Patch
• ISSN: 1001-8417
• DOI: 10.1016/j.cclet.2024.109489

Constructing a smart polymer film with favorable lithium (Li) transport capability and mechanical flexibility for suppressing Li dendrite growth is an effective strategy. Unfortunately, the porosity and the swelling of the polymer membrane cannot completely prevent liquid electrolyte from sweeping through the artificial protection film, severely deteriorating the cyclic performance. Herein, we propose a defect-free hybrid film that consists of Li+ conductive lithium polyacrylate (LiPAA) polymer interface layer and Li-Zn alloy patch to tackle the critical problems of traditional polymer composite passivation film. The pinhole leaks of the polymer matrix are self-filled by Li-Zn alloy patches, enhancing the integrity of LiPAA film. Consequently, a defect-free hybrid film is nailed flat against the Li metal anode, exhibiting extraordinary stability in the liquid electrolyte and enabling perfect protection effect. This facile strategy produces a promising anode for next generation Li batteries. A defect-free hybrid film that consists of Li+ conductive lithium polyacrylate (LiPAA) polymer interface layer and Li-Zn alloy patch is nailed flat against the Li anode. The pinhole leaks of the LiPAA matrix are self-filled by Li-Zn alloy patches, eliminating the swelling and liquid permeability corrosion of the polymer membrane by the liquid electrolyte and enabling perfect protection effect for Li metal anode. [Display omitted]