Quantitatively detecting and characterizing metallic lithium in lithium-based batteries

Abstract

Rechargeable lithium (Li)-based batteries, including Li-ion batteries (LIBs) and Li-metal batteries (LMBs), are essential energy storage devices. However, their electrochemical performance in practical applications is affected by the Li electroplating process and accompanying inevitable dendrite growth, which undermines their safety and longevity. Effective monitoring of electroplated Li formation, dendrite growth dynamics, and the evolution of inactive/active Li components is essential for understanding the degradation pathways of Li-based batteries and realizing their highly reversible prolonged lifespan. Recently, significant research progress has been achieved in the quantitative detection and characterization of dendrite Li growth and evolution, including the development of chemical quantification, electrochemical analysis, and characterization technique-based quantification methodologies. They provide new insights into how metallic Li formation affects the performance of Li-based batteries. This review article comprehensively summarizes the latest research advancements in quantitatively detecting and characterizing metallic Li formation and its effects on the performance of Li-based batteries. It provides an improved understanding of the failure mechanism induced by metallic Li formation. This review also discusses the positive effects of techniques on understanding failure mechanisms, critical unknown aspects, challenges, and potential future research directions necessary to overcome the limitations originating from metallic Li electroplating. We propose that future research should focus on refining quantitative detection techniques, controlling metallic Li formation, and enhancing the long-term stability of Li-based batteries.

Graphical abstract: Quantitatively detecting and characterizing metallic lithium in lithium-based batteries

Article information

Article type
Review Article
Submitted
03 Aug 2024
Accepted
02 Oct 2024
First published
05 Oct 2024

Energy Environ. Sci., 2024, Advance Article

Quantitatively detecting and characterizing metallic lithium in lithium-based batteries

Z. Zheng, X. Fang, W. Deng, P. Li, X. Zheng, H. Zhang, L. Li, S. Chou, Y. Chen, Y. Tang and J. Wang, Energy Environ. Sci., 2024, Advance Article , DOI: 10.1039/D4EE03468F

To request permission to reproduce material from this article, please go to the Copyright Clearance Center request page.

If you are an author contributing to an RSC publication, you do not need to request permission provided correct acknowledgement is given.

If you are the author of this article, you do not need to request permission to reproduce figures and diagrams provided correct acknowledgement is given. If you want to reproduce the whole article in a third-party publication (excluding your thesis/dissertation for which permission is not required) please go to the Copyright Clearance Center request page.

Read more about how to correctly acknowledge RSC content.

Social activity

Spotlight

Advertisements