Non-destructive chemical prelithiation of VO2(B) anodes constructing a multifunctional interphase layer for advanced Li-Ion batteries

VO2(B) stands as a promising anode material, comparable to the disordered rock-salt phase Li3+xV2O5, owning to its ease of preparation, suitable redox potential, and remarkable rate capability. However, the practical application of VO2(B) anodes faces substantial limitations due to its low initial coulombic efficiency (ICE) and instability of solid electrolyte interface (SEI) layer during cycling. In this study, we introduce a highly efficient, controllable, and non-destructive chemical prelithiation method utilizing a reductive Li-arene reagent, formed by dissolving Li-metal to THF solutions containing biphenyl derivatives. This method enables the VO2(B) anode to achieve an ICE of nearly 100 %. The investigation on the chemical composition and mechanical properties of SEI layers reveals that the prelithiated VO2(B) electrode contains a more favorable LiF component, fewer adverse byproducts, and exhibits a thinner thickness with high structural strength. Kinetic analysis demonstrates that the prelithiation treatment accelerates the diffusion of lithium ions, reduces interfacial reaction resistances, and maintains interface stability during cycling. To demonstrate the practical application, we assemble a well-designed Prelithiation VO2(B)||NCM811 full cell, achieving an enhancement in the energy density of at least 20 %. This work underscores the potential of prelithiated VO2(B) electrodes for developing lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) with high-safety and high-energy/power density.