Boron-containing single-ion conducting polymer electrolyte for dendrite-free lithium metal batteries

• Published in: Solid state ionics 2020-06, Vol.349, p.115309, Article 115309
• Main Authors: Chen, Guangping, Niu, Chaoqun, Liao, Xiaoxue, Chen, Yubing, Shang, Wenyan, Du, Jie, Chen, Yong
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Addition polymerization; Anodes; Batteries; Boron; Conducting polymers; Conductivity; Dendritic structure; Electric fields; Electrode materials; Electrolytes; Electrolytic cells; Ion currents; Lithium dendrite; Lithium ions; Lithium metal anode; Single-ion conducting polymer electrolyte; Studies
• ISSN: 0167-2738; 1872-7689
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ssi.2020.115309

Lithium metal is regarded as a “Holy Grail” anode material because of its high theoretical specific capacity and uniquely low reduction potential. However, its low Coulombic efficiency and hazards caused by uncontrolled lithium dendrite growth have hindered its practical application in anodes for many years. In this work, we design a novel boron-containing single-ion conducting polymer electrolyte that eliminates the large electric field that Chazalviel has identified as the cause of lithium dendrite growth. The ability to inhibit lithium dendrite growth is demonstrated via galvanostatic cycling tests of Li/Electrolyte/Li cells. In addition, the boron-containing single-ion conducting polymer electrolyte exhibits excellent ionic conductivity (2.23 mS cm−1) and an extremely high lithium-ion transference number (0.71). Moreover, the LiFePO4/Electrolyte/Li cell exhibits an outstanding specific capacity of more than 130 mAh g−1 and excellent capacity retention (90% of the highest capacity was retained after 100 cycles). This excellent performance indicates a promising strategy for development of safe, long-life lithium metal batteries. [Display omitted] •The boron-containing single-ion conducting polymer electrolyte is prepared.•More than 500 h lithium cycle life time is achieved upon galvanostatic charge/discharge.•Excellent ionic conductivity of 2.4 × 10−3 S·cm−1.•High lithium ion transference number of 0.71.