Designing cathode-electrolyte interphases for durable and safe high-energy density Li-ion batteries

In order to reach the goal of no less than 400 Wh Kg-1 in cell level of next-generation lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), the adoption of single-crystal nickel-rich layered oxides LiNixMnyCo1?x?yO2 (x>0.8, SC-NMC) as cathode materials coupled with is highly desired.

However, such chemistries are usually accompanied by high electrochemical reactivity and unstable cathode–electrolyte interphase (CEI), making it challenging to maintain a satisfactory cycle life and safety performance.

Here we will apply a range of efficient electrolyte additives to tune the properties of CEIs formed at the cathode/electrolyte interface, study the fundamental physico-chemical properties in terms of composition, structure and evolution process of CEI, and screen out the most promising electrolyte additives by electrochemical measurements and thermal performance.

Through ample feedback we will move towards the accelerated design of battery materials for durable and safe high-energy density LIBs.