Current collector engineering for advanced anode-free alkali metal batteries with liquid electrolyte

Abstract

Due to their high energy density and enhanced safety, anode-free alkali metal batteries (AFAMBs) have emerged as promising candidates for large-scale energy storage applications. However, their practical deployment is hindered by challenges such as uncontrolled dendrite growth and unstable solid electrolyte interphases (SEI), which significantly compromise cycling stability and Coulombic efficiency. Recent advances in current collector engineering have shown considerable potential in mitigating dendrite formation and enhancing SEI stability. This review summarizes the latest developments in current collector design strategies aimed at addressing these issues, including materials optimization, crystal orientation regulation, porous structure design, and surface modification. The specific mechanisms for preventing dendrites and stabilizing the SEI are discussed in detail. Furthermore, the remaining challenges and future directions for current collector optimization in anode-free alkali metal batteries are discussed.