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Atomic and Molecular Layer Deposition for Protective Films of High-Capacity Lithium Metal Anodes
About
Atomic layer deposition (ALD) enables inorganic thin films at the atomic level while molecular layer deposition (MLD) enables organic thin films at the molecular level. Using ALD and MLD, we develop a series of protective nanofilms over lithium metal electrodes to improve their electrochemical performance. Transportation electrification represents a promising solution to the aggravating depletion of fossil fuels, given the fact that currently, transportation is consuming around 30% of the total energy in the United States while over 90% are from petroleum. Transportation electrification requires a battery technology to meet the following requirements: a high energy density of > 300 Wh/kg to meet a driving range of > 300 miles, affordable cost (< $125/kWh), reliable safety free of fires and explosions, and long lifetime of > 15 calendar years 1-2. Among all the commercialized rechargeable battery systems, lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) represent the best technology to date, and they are dominating portable electronics. Unfortunately, state-of-the-art LIBs are still unsatisfactory in all these aspects for transportation electrification.
Key Benefits
* The ALD and MLD enable thin films directly over lithium metal electrodes to form an exceptional protective layer. * The ALD and MLD can operate under low temperatures less than 180 °C. * The ALD and MLD are flexible to tune deposited films in thickness, composition, and properties. * The deposited films enable improved safety, lifetime, and efficiency of lithium metal anodes.
Applications
* Portable electronics: laptops, cell phones, and any consumer portable electronics * Electric vehicles