Developing high-energy, stable all-solid-state lithium batteries using aluminum-based anodes and high-nickel cathodes

Researchers from Nanjing University, led by Professor Ping He and Professor Shaochun Tang, have published a comprehensive study in Nano-Micro Letters on the development of high-energy, stable all-solid-state lithium batteries (ASSLBs) using aluminum-based anodes and high-nickel cathodes. This study highlights the latest advancements in addressing the challenges of electrode–electrolyte interface instability and achieving long-term cycling stability in ASSLBs.

Why Aluminum-Based Anodes and High-Nickel Cathodes Matter

• High Energy Density: ASSLBs with aluminum-based anodes and high-nickel cathodes can achieve high energy density, making them suitable for long-range electric vehicles and electric flight.
• Interface Stability: Aluminum exhibits excellent interfacial stability with sulfide electrolytes, while high-nickel cathodes deliver high output voltage and specific capacity.
• Practical Applications: The combination of pre-lithiated aluminum anodes and dual-reinforced high-nickel cathodes shows great potential for practical applications in high-energy, stable ASSLBs.

Innovative Design and Mechanisms

• Anode Pre-lithiation: The study employs an anode pre-lithiation technique to promote the reversibility of aluminum, enhancing its interfacial stability with the sulfide electrolyte.
• Dual-Reinforcement Technology: A dual-reinforcement approach is developed to address the interfacial incompatibility between the high-nickel cathode active material and sulfide electrolyte, improving the oxidation tolerance of the electrolyte at high potentials.
• Electrochemical Performance: The fabricated ASSLB achieves stable cycling for 1000 cycles with a capacity retention of 82.2%. At a critical negative-to-positive ratio of 1.1, the battery’s specific energy reaches up to 375 Wh kg⁻¹, maintaining over 85.9% of its capacity after 100 charge-discharge cycles.

Future Outlook

• Scalability and Practical Applications: The scalable synthesis methods and practical battery configurations discussed in the study highlight the potential for real-world applications of ASSLBs in high-energy, stable battery systems.
• Further Research: Future work may focus on optimizing the synthesis of electrode materials to improve their stability and electrochemical performance. Additionally, integrating advanced materials and technologies could enhance the functionality and applicability of ASSLBs.
• Mechanistic Insights: This study provides valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying the electrochemical performance of ASSLBs, offering a promising path for the development of advanced energy storage technologies.

Stay tuned for more groundbreaking advancements from Professor Ping He and Professor Shaochun Tang as they continue to explore the potential of aluminum-based anodes and high-nickel cathodes for high-energy, stable all-solid-state lithium batteries!