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Completed TRL 2 (started at 1, targeting 2)
Key Technical Challenges: Development of a thin and robust SEI layer with high Li-ion transport and mechanical strength on Li metal surface.\nApproach/Research Plan: Design, screen candidates as pre-formed SEI layer; Evaluate, optimize the composition and thickness; Conduct the cycling and identify max current; Integrate water-based electrolyte for full cell design; and, Incorporate into Li-metal based battery chemistries.\nDifferent/Complementary: Using pre-formed SEI on Li metal to address Li metal cyclic-ability and water-based electrolyte to replace the flammable organic carbonates.\nNext Step: Incorporation of a high concentration Li-salt in electrolyte to improve Li+ transport properties/ transference number for high/ultrahigh current cycling\n\n
Goal: To make Li metal anode cycle safely by pre-forming a stable and uniform solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) layer on Li metal surface to restrain both Li dendrite growth and other unfavorable reactions\nCapability Need/Knowledge Gap: During the Li plating process at charge stage, the SEI layer is broken, and Li dendrites are generated at the sites with high local current density. The freshly formed Li and/or Li dendrite generates new SEI layer during cycling. The repeated breakage and repair of the SEI layers consumes both Li metal and electrolyte, resulting in the dry up of electrolyte and reduces the cycle life. \nState-of-the-Art/Knowledge: Rechargeable Li metal batteries have not been achieved yet because of the uneven stripping/plating of Li metal and the side reaction between Li metal and electrolyte.
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