A 3D activated microporous protective layer for high-energy lithium metal batteries

For the operation of rechargeable lithium (Li) metal batteries (LMBs), ensuring the stability and efficiency of Li metal anodes (LMAs) is crucial. The solid-electrolyte interphase (SEI) plays a pivotal role in this context, but its dynamic and often inconsistent nature poses significant challenges, leading to uncontrollable Li dendrite growth and potential short circuits. To address these challenges, we introduce an activated microporous protective layer designed to stabilize LMAs. This protective layer not only effectively suppresses electrolyte consumption but also enhances passivation properties, ensures homogeneity, and maintains mechanical integrity during cycling. Leveraging these unique characteristics, we achieve high-efficiency Li deposition and stable cycling with Li iron phosphate (LiFePO₄, 3.9 mA h cm⁻²) and high-nickel (LiNi_0.83Mn_0.06Co_0.11O₂, 3 mA h cm⁻²) cathodes, even under demanding conditions such as high-loading cathodes and limited lithium excess. This research contributes to advancing more reliable and efficient high-energy LMBs, addressing critical challenges in energy storage technology.