Effect of the Formation Rate on the Stability of Anode-Free Lithium Metal Batteries

Anode-free Li-ion batteries (AFBs), where a Cu current collector is used to plate and strip Li instead of a classic anode, are promising technologies to increase the energy density of batteries. In addition, AFBs are safer and easier to manufacture than competing Li-metal anode and solid-state batteries. However, the loss of Li inventory that occurs during the operation of AFBs limits their lifespan and practical application. In this study, we find that in particular the current density used during the formation of AFBs has a considerable impact on the cycling stability of the cell. We optimize the formation protocol based on experimental and computational observations of thresholds associated with morphological changes in the plated Li and the chemical composition of the solid-electrolyte interphase. Unlike graphite anodes, which require slow formation cycles, AFBs exhibit improved cycling behavior when forming at the highest current densities that still avoid dendritic Li formation. We verify that this strategy for optimizing the formation current density is effective for three different electrolyte formulations and therefore provides a straightforward universal rationale to optimize the formation protocols for AFBs.