Interface evolution mechanism of anode free lithium metal batteries under phase field interaction

Anode free lithium metal batteries (AFLMB) are considered a new generation of high energy density and high safety battery systems. However, the in-situ formed anode of AFLMB usually results in more unstable interfaces than traditional Li metal batteries during the dynamic evolution. The diffusion and the reversibility of Li ions are controlled by the evolution of the anode interface, which plays a crucial role in the decay of battery capacity under the interaction of phase field. This review examines the interface evolution mechanism of Li metal at the in-situ anode interface, considering phase field interaction from both internal and external factors. The characteristics of interface structure are investigated during plating/stripping stage of in-situ formed Li metal under multi-physical fields, examining multiple factors of interface regulation. The discussion is based on the dynamic evolution of Li metal under phase field theory. Moreover, advanced characterization techniques that can provide targeted understanding of the dynamic evolution of Li metal at interfaces are reviewed. Finally, a summary and outlook are made on the challenges and future development directions of AFLMBs.