High-Performance Lithiated SiOx Anode Obtained by a Controllable and Efficient Prelithiation Strategy

Research progress of silicon-based anode materials for lithium-ion batteries

In recent years, with the rapid development of fields such as portable electronic devices, electric vehicles, and energy storage systems, the performance requirements for lithium-ion batteries have been continuously rising. Among the numerous key components of lithium-ion batteries, the performance of the anode materials plays a crucial role, as it is directly related to core indicators such as the energy density, cycle life, and safety of the batteries. Among them, silicon-based anode materials have stood out among many anode materials by virtue of their extremely high theoretical specific capacity, becoming one of the hot research directions in the field of lithium-ion battery anode materials at present. However, silicon-based anode materials have problems such as severe volume expansion, poor electrical conductivity, low initial coulombic efficiency, and unstable solid electrolyte interphase during the charging and discharging process, which limit their wide application and urgently require the seeking of new solutions. This paper comprehensively and in-depth introduces the research progress of silicon-based anode materials for lithium-ion batteries in recent years, focusing on the failure mechanisms and modification methods of silicon-based anodes, and provides effective solutions to the severe challenges faced in the commercialization process of silicon-based anodes.

Prelithiation strategies for enhancing the performance of lithium-ion batteries

During the initial cycling of lithium-ion batteries, the generation of SEI at the electrode-electrolyte interface and the occurrence of irreversible side reactions consume the active lithium, resulting in irreversible loss of volume (ICL), which may also be accompanied by electrode volume changes and structural collapse. Addressing these challenges has become critical, and pre-lithiation with additional lithium has emerged as a key way to improve battery performance. Hence, this review comprehensively analyzes and summarizes the causes of ICL in lithium-ion batteries, and systematically discusses various prelithiation methods and mechanisms of different electrode structures, especially electrodes. Moreover, we discuss the importance of developing effective electrolyte, separator, and binder pre-lithiation technologies to improve ionic conductivity and battery life. The effectiveness of each strategy in improving initial capacity and cycling stability, while addressing compatibility issues and minimizing potential side effects, is evaluated to inform the future development and large-scale application of pre-lithiation technology.

Fast-chargeable lithium-ion batteries by μ-Si anode-tailored full-cell design

Silicon (Si) anodes have long been recognized to significantly improve the energy density and fast-charging capability of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). However, the implementation of these anodes in commercial LIB cells has progressed incrementally due to the immense volume change of Si across its full state-of-charge (SOC) range. Here, we report an anode-tailored full-cell design (ATFD), which incorporates micrometer-sized silicon (μ-Si) alone, for operation over a limited, prespecified SOC range identified as 30-70%. This range allows homogeneous (de)lithiation throughout the electrode, accompanied by an acceptable level of volume change. The ATFD-based cell exhibits 21.3% higher gravimetric energy density than that of its graphite-based counterpart in a commercial 18650 cylindrical cell and 84.6% capacity retention after 500 cycles even at a fast-charging rate of 3 C. This study indicates that the partial, intermediate SOC operation of the μ-Si anode can markedly increase the energy density and boost the fast-charging capability of a LIB cell, a challenging task in traditional cell engineering.

Scalable Li-Ion Battery with Metal/Metal Oxide Sulfur Cathode and Lithiated Silicon Oxide/Carbon Anode

A Li-ion battery combines a cathode benefitting from Sn and MnO2 with high sulfur content, and a lithiated anode including fumed silica, few layer graphene (FLG) and amorphous carbon. This battery is considered a scalable version of the system based on lithium-sulfur (Li-S) conversion, since it exploits at the anode the Li-ion electrochemistry instead of Li-metal stripping/deposition. Sn and MnO2 are used as cathode additives to improve the electrochemical process, increase sulfur utilization, while mitigating the polysulfides loss typical of Li-S devices. The cathode demonstrates in half-cell a maximum capacity of ~1170 mAh gS -1, rate performance extended over 1 C, and retention of 250 cycles. The anode undergoes Li-(de)alloying with silicon, Li-(de)insertion into amorphous carbon, and Li-(de)intercalation through FLG, with capacity of 500 mAh g-1 in half-cell, completely retained over 400 cycles. The full-cells are assembled by combining a sulfur cathode with active material loading up to 3 mg cm-2 and lithiated version of the anode, achieved either using an electrochemical pathway or a chemical one. The cells deliver at C/5 initial capacity higher than 1000 mAh gS -1, retained for over ~40 % upon 400 cycles. The battery is considered a promising energy storage system for possible scaling-up in pouch or cylindrical cells.

Sequencing-Dependent Impact of Carbon Coating on Microstructure Evolution and Electrochemical Performance of Pre-lithiated SiO Anodes: Enhanced Efficiency and Stability via Pre-Coating Strategy

Silicon monoxide (SiO) has attracted considerable interest as anode material for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). However, their poor initial Coulombic efficiency (ICE) and conductivity limit large-scale applications. Prelithiation and carbon-coating are common and effective strategies in industry for enhancing the electrochemical performance of SiO. However, the involved heat-treatment processes inevitably lead to coarsening of active silicon phases, posing a significant challenge in industrial applications. Herein, the differences in microstructures and electrochemical performances between prelithiated SiO with a pre-coated carbon layer (SiO@C@PLi) and SiO subjected to carbon-coating after prelithiation (SiO@PLi@C) are investigated. A preliminary carbon layer on the surface of SiO before prelithiation is found that can suppress active Si phase coarsening effectively and regulate the post-prelithiation phase content. The strategic optimization of the sequence where prelithiation and carbon-coating processes of SiO exert a critical influence on its regulation of microstructure and electrochemical performances. As a result, SiO@C@PLi exhibits a higher ICE of 88.0%, better cycling performance and lower electrode expansion than SiO@PLi@C. The pouch-type full-cell tests demonstrate that SiO@C@PLi/Graphite||NCM811 delivers a superior capacity retention of 91% after 500 cycles. This work provides invaluable insights into industrial productions of SiO anodes through optimizing the microstructure of SiO in prelithiation and carbon-coating processes.

Lithiation: Advancing Material Synthesis and Structural Engineering for Emerging Applications

Lithiation, a process of inserting lithium ions into a host material, is revolutionizing nanomaterials synthesis and structural engineering as well as enhancing their performance across emerging applications, particularly valuable for large-scale synthesis of high-quality low-dimensional nanomaterials. Through a systematic investigation of the synthetic strategies and structural changes induced by lithiation, this review aims to offer a comprehensive understanding of the development, potential, and challenges associated with this promising approach. First, the basic principles of lithiation/delithiation processes will be introduced. Then, the recent advancements in the lithiation-induced structure changes of nanomaterials, such as morphology tuning, phase transition, defect generation, etc., will be stressed, emphasizing the importance of lithiation in structural modulation of nanomaterials. With the tunable structures induced by the lithiation, the properties and performance in electrochemical, photochemical, electronic devices, bioapplications, etc. will be discussed, followed by outlining the current challenges and perspectives in this research area.

Impact of Electrolyte on Direct-Contact Prelithiation of Silicon-Graphite Anodes in Lithium-Ion Cells with High-Nickel Cathodes

Silicon-based anodes offer high specific capacities to enhance the energy density of lithium-ion batteries, but are severely hindered by the immense volume expansion and subsequent breakage of the solid-electrolyte-interphase (SEI) during cycling. Herein, we utilize an effective strategy, known as direct-contact prelithiation, to mitigate the challenges associated with expansion and surface instability in SiOx/graphite (SG) anodes. It involves introducing lithium into the anode via physical contact with lithium metal and electrolyte before cycling. Prelithiation of SG anodes with an advanced localized high-concentration electrolyte is shown to develop a mechanically robust artificial SEI that tolerates better the electrode volume expansion. The modified SG anode paired with the high-Ni cathode LiNi0.90Mn0.05Co0.05O2 delivers a high initial capacity of 191 mA h g-1 with 80% capacity retention over 150 cycles, compared to 46% retention with a conventional electrolyte. The bolstered SEI layer with reduced surface reactivity is due to the reduced electrolyte consumption and regulated SEI formation during cycling. Furthermore, the advanced electrolyte and fortified SG anode help reduce cathode degradation, transition-metal dissolution, and loss of active lithium. This study highlights viable prelithiation strategies to stabilize Si-based anodes for high-energy-density batteries through electrolyte design.

Fundamental Understanding of the Low Initial Coulombic Efficiency in SiOx Anode for Lithium-Ion Batteries: Mechanisms and Solutions

To meet the ever-increasing demand for high-energy lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), it is imperative to develop next-generation anode materials. Compared to conventional carbon-based anodes, Si-based materials are promising due to their high theoretical capacity and reasonable cost. SiOx, as a Si-derivative anode candidate, is particularly encouraging for its durable cycling life, the practical application of which is, however, severely hindered by low initial Coulombic efficiency (ICE) that leads to continuous lithium consumption. What is worse, low ICE also easily triggers a terrible chain reaction causing bad cycling stability. To further develop SiOx anode, researchers have obtained in-depth understandings regarding its working/failing mechanisms so as to further propose effective remedies for low ICE mitigation. In this sense, herein recent studies investigating the possible causes that fundamentally result in low ICE of SiOx, based on which a variety of solutions addressing the low ICE issue are discussed and summarized, are timely summarized. This perspective provides valuable insights into the rational design of high ICE SiOx anodes and paves the way toward industrial application of SiOx as the next generation LIB anode.

Boosting Conversion of the Si-O Bond by Introducing Fe2+ in Carbon-Coated SiOx for Superior Lithium Storage

SiOx-based anodes are of great promise for lithium-ion batteries due to their low working potential and high specific capacity. However, several issues involving large volume expansion during the lithiation process, low intrinsic conductivity, and unsatisfactory initial Coulombic efficiency (ICE) hinder their practical application. Here, an Fe-SiOx@C composite with significantly improved lithium-storage performance was successfully synthesized by combining Fe2+ modification with a carbon coating strategy. The results of both experiments and density functional theory calculations confirm that the Fe2+ modification not only effectively achieves uniform carbon coating but also weakens the bonding energy of the Si-O bond and boosts reversible lithiation/delithiation reactions, resulting in great improvement in the electrical conductivity, ICE, and reversible specific capacity of the as-obtained Fe-SiOx@C. Together with the coated carbon, the in situ-generated conductive Fe-based intermediates also ensure the electrical contact of active components, relieve the volume expansion, and maintain the structural integrity of the electrode during cycling. And the Fe-SiOx@C (x ≈ 1.5) electrode can deliver a high-rate capacity of 354 mA h g-1 at 2.0 A g-1 and long-term cycling stability (552.4 mA h g-1 at 0.5 A g-1 even after 500 cycles). The findings here provide a facile modification strategy to improve the electrochemical lithium-storage performance of SiOx-based anodes.

Solution-Based Deep Prelithiation for Lithium-Ion Capacitors with High Energy Density

Lithium-ion capacitors (LICs) exhibit superior power density and cyclability compared to lithium-ion batteries. However, the low initial Coulombic efficiency (ICE) of amorphous carbon anodes (e.g., hard carbon (HC) and soft carbon (SC)) limits the energy density of LICs by underutilizing cathode capacity. Here, a solution-based deep prelithiation strategy for carbon anodes is applied using a contact-ion pair dominant solution, offering high energy density based on a systematic electrode balancing based on the cathode capacity increased beyond the original theoretical limit. Increasing the anode ICE to 150% over 100%, the activated carbon (AC) capacity is doubled by activating Li+ cation storage, which unleashes rocking-chair LIC operation alongside the dual-ion-storage mechanism. The increased AC capacity results in an energy density of 106.6 Wh kg-1 AC+SC, equivalent to 281% of that of LICs without prelithiation. Moreover, this process lowers the cathode-anode mass ratio, reducing the cell thickness by 67% without compromising the cell capacity. This solution-based deep chemical prelithiation promises high-energy LICs based on transition metal-free, earth-abundant active materials to meet the practical demands of power-intensive applications.

Critical Review of Emerging Pre-metallization Technologies for Rechargeable Metal-Ion Batteries

Low Coulombic efficiency, low-capacity retention, and short cycle life are the primary challenges faced by various metal-ion batteries due to the loss of corresponding active metal. Practically, these issues can be significantly ameliorated by compensating for the loss of active metals using pre-metallization techniques. Herein, the state-of-the-art development in various pr-emetallization techniques is summarized. First, the origin of pre-metallization is elaborated and the Coulombic efficiency of different battery materials is compared. Second, different pre-metallization strategies, including direct physical contact, chemical strategies, electrochemical method, overmetallized approach, and the use of electrode additives are summarized. Third, the impact of pre-metallization on batteries, along with its role in improving Coulombic efficiency is discussed. Fourth, the various characterization techniques required for mechanistic studies in this field are outlined, from laboratory-level experiments to large scientific device. Finally, the current challenges and future opportunities of pre-metallization technology in improving Coulombic efficiency and cycle stability for various metal-ion batteries are discussed. In particular, the positive influence of pre-metallization reagents is emphasized in the anode-free battery systems. It is envisioned that this review will inspire the development of high-performance energy storage systems via the effective pre-metallization technologies.

Boosting the Cell Performance of the SiO/Cu and SiO/PPy Anodes via In-Situ Reduction/Oxidation Coating Strategies

Silicon monoxide (SiO) has attracted great attention due to its high theoretical specific capacity as an alternative material for conventional graphite anode, but its poor electrical conductivity and irreversible side reactions at the SiO/electrolyte interface seriously reduce its cycling stability. Here, to overcome the drawbacks, the dicharged SiO anode coated with Cu coating layer is elaborately designed by in-situ reduction method. Compared with the pristine SiO anode of lithium-ion battery (293 mAh g-1 at 0.5 A g-1 after 200 cycles), the obtained SiO/Cu composite presents superior cycling stability (1206 mAh g-1 at 0.5 A g-1 after 200 cycles). The tight combination of Cu particles and SiO significantly improves the conductivity of the composite, effectively inhibits the side-reaction between the active material and electrolyte. In addition, polypyrrole-coated SiO composites are further prepared by in-situ oxidation method, which delivers a high reversible specific capacity of 1311 mAh g-1 at 0.5 A g-1 after 200 cycles. The in-situ coating strategies in this work provide a new pathway for the development and practical application of high-performance silicon-based anode.

Unleashing the Potential of High-Capacity Anodes through an Interfacial Prelithiation Strategy

The scalable development of an environmentally adaptive and homogeneous Li+ supplementary route remains a formidable challenge for the existing prelithiation technologies, restricting the full potential of high-capacity anodes. In this study, we present a moisture-tolerant interfacial prelithiation approach through casting a hydrophobic poly(vinylidene-co-hexafluoropropylene) membrane blended with a deep-lithiated alloy (Li22Si5@C/PVDF-HFP) onto Si based anodes. This strategy could not only extend to various high-capacity anode systems (SiOx@C, hard carbon) but also align with industrial roll-to-roll assembly processes. By carefully adjusting the thickness of the prelithiation layer, the densely packed Si@C electrode (4.5 mAh cm-2) exhibits significantly improved initial Coulombic efficiency until a close-to-unit value, as well as extreme moisture tolerance (60% relative humidity). Furthermore, it achieves more than 10-fold enhancement of ionic conductivity across the electrode. As pairing the prelithiated Si@C anode with the LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 cathode, the 2 Ah pouch-format prototype balances an energy density of ∼371 Wh kg-1 and an extreme power output of 2450 W kg-1 as well as 83.8% capacity retention for 1000 cycles. The combined operando phase tracking and spatial arrangement analysis of the intermediate alloy elucidate that the enhanced Li utilization derives from the gradient stress dissipation model upon a spontaneous Li+ redistribution process.

Boosting the Reversible, High-Rate Na+ Storage Capability of the Hard Carbon Anode Via the Synergistic Structural Tailoring and Controlled Presodiation

Hard carbons (HCs) are extensively investigated as the potential anodes for commercialization of sodium-ion batteries (SIBs). However, the practical deployment of HC anode suffers from the retarded Na⁺ diffusion at the high-rate or low-temperature operation scenarios. Herein, a multiscale modification strategy by tuning HC microstructure on the particle level as well as replenishing extra Na⁺ reservoir for the electrode through a homogeneous presodiation therapy is presented. Consequently, the coulombic efficiency of HC anode can be precisely controlled till the close-to-unit value. Detailed kinetics analysis observes that the Na⁺ diffusivity can be drastically enhanced by two orders of magnitude at the low potential region (< 0.1 V vs. Na⁺ /Na), which accelerates the rate-limiting step. As pairing the presodiated HC anode (≈5.0 ± 0.2 mg cm^-2 ) with the NaVPO₄ F cathode (≈10.3 mg cm^-2 ) in the 200 mAh pouch cell, the optimal balance of the cyclability (83% over 1000 cycles), low-temperature behavior till -40 °C as well as the maximized power output of 1500 W kg^-1 can be simultaneously achieved. This synergistic modification strategy opens a new avenue to exploit the reversible, ultrafast Na⁺ storage kinetics of HC anodes, which thus constitutes a quantum leap forward toward high-rate SIB prototyping.

A Functional Prelithiation Separator Promises Sustainable High‐Energy Lithium‐Ion Batteries

High‐energy lithium‐ion batteries built with silicon‐based anode materials are usually associated with short cycle lives due to mechanical failure at an anode level and more importantly, due to electrochemical failure at a cell level as a result of irreversible consumption of cathode Li during initial charge. (Electro)chemical prelithiation has shown promises to compensate initial Li loss and improve cycling performance of the battery. However, previous strategies applied directly at anode or cathode could raise concerns on safety and degraded electrode structure, and are less compatible with industrial manufacture of batteries. Here, a new concept of prelithiation by lithiation agents supported functional separator, which is highly adaptive to electrode preparation, battery manufacture and formation, and is capable of, by simply adjusting cell voltage, not only replenishing cathode Li loss but re‐uptaking anode Li to inhibit local over‐lithiation and dendrite formation, is shown. By employing the functional separator, a 3‐Ah Li‐ion pouch cell that pairs a silicon‐based anode and a high‐nickel layered oxide cathode demonstrates stable energy output of >330 Wh kg−1 and much improved cycling performance.

Li2Se as a Cathode Prelithiation Additive for Lithium-Ion Batteries

In conventional lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), active lithium (Li) ions, which function as charge carriers and could only be supplied by the Li-containing cathodes, are also consumed during the formation of the solid electrolyte interphase. Such irreversible Li loss reduces the energy density of LIBs and is highly desired to be compensated by prelithiation additives. Herein, lithium selenide (Li₂Se), which could be irreversibly converted into selenide (Se) at 2.5-3.8 V and thus supplies additional Li, is proposed as a cathode prelithiation additive for LIBs. Compared with previously reported prelithiation reagents (e.g., Li₆CoO₄, Li₂O, and Li₂S), the delithiation of Li₂Se not only delivers a high specific capacity but also avoids gas release and incompatibility with carbonate electrolytes. The electrochemical characterizations show that with the addition of 6 wt % Li₂Se to the LiFePO₄ (LFP) cathodes, a 9% increase in the initial specific capacity in half Li||LFP cells and a 19.8% increase in the energy density (based on the total mass of the two electrodes' materials) could be achieved without sacrificing the other battery performance. This work demonstrates the possibility to use Li₂Se as a high-efficiency prelithiation additive for LIBs and provides a solution to the high-energy LIBs.

Recent Progress in Silicon-Based Materials for Performance-Enhanced Lithium-Ion Batteries

Silicon (Si) has been considered to be one of the most promising anode materials for high energy density lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) due to its high theoretical capacity, low discharge platform, abundant raw materials and environmental friendliness. However, the large volume changes, unstable solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) formation during cycling and intrinsic low conductivity of Si hinder its practical applications. Various modification strategies have been widely developed to enhance the lithium storage properties of Si-based anodes, including cycling stability and rate capabilities. In this review, recent modification methods to suppress structural collapse and electric conductivity are summarized in terms of structural design, oxide complexing and Si alloys, etc. Moreover, other performance enhancement factors, such as pre-lithiation, surface engineering and binders are briefly discussed. The mechanisms behind the performance enhancement of various Si-based composites characterized by in/ex situ techniques are also reviewed. Finally, we briefly highlight the existing challenges and future development prospects of Si-based anode materials.

High-Energy-Density and Long-Lifetime Lithium-Ion Battery Enabled by a Stabilized Li2O2 Cathode Prelithiation Additive

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) typically suffer from large irreversible capacities caused by active lithium loss during formation of a solid electrolyte interface (SEI) at the anode side. Cathode prelithiation with preloaded additives has emerged as an effective strategy to solve the above issue. With ultrahigh theoretical capacity, Li₂O₂ serves as an excellent cathode prelithiation additive, whereas poor ambient stability limits its further development. In this study, we report a surface protection strategy to enable ambient processing of the Li₂O₂ additive. Li₂O₂ is well confined in poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) nanofibers (P-Li₂O₂) via electrospinning, which exhibits greatly enhanced ambient stability compared with the unprotected one. Notably, when P-Li₂O₂ is preloaded in LiNi_0.5Co_0.2Mn_0.3O₂ cathodes (NCM-P-Li₂O₂), PMMA nanofibers remain stable during cathode slurry processing but readily dissolve in electrolytes and expose Li₂O₂ for effective electrochemical oxidation. Fabrication of P-Li₂O₂ allows systematic investigation of prelithiation behavior in full cells (NCM-P-Li₂O₂ cathodes paired with Si/Graphite anodes) and its impact on the electrochemical performance. Rational tuning of the prelithiation degree provides guidance for optimizing the amount of the cathode additive, which brings appealing cell lifetime and energy density.

Prelithiation Bridges the Gap for Developing Next-Generation Lithium-Ion Batteries/Capacitors

The ever-growing market of portable electronics and electric vehicles has spurred extensive research for advanced lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) with high energy density. High-capacity alloy- and conversion-type anodes are explored to replace the conventional graphite anode. However, one common issue plaguing these anodes is the large initial capacity loss caused by the solid electrolyte interface formation and other irreversible parasitic reactions, which decrease the total energy density and prevent further market integration. Prelithiation becomes indispensable to compensate for the initial capacity loss, enhance the full cell cycling performance, and bridge the gap between laboratory studies and the practical requirements of advanced LIBs. This review summarizes the various emerging anode and cathode prelithiation techniques, the key barriers, and the corresponding strategies for manufacturing-compatible and scalable prelithiation. Furthermore, prelithiation as the primary Li⁺ donor enables the safe assembly of new-configured "beyond LIBs" (e.g., Li-ion/S and Li-ion/O₂ batteries) and high power-density Li-ion capacitors (LICs). The related progress is also summarized. Finally, perspectives are suggested on the future trend of prelithiation techniques to propel the commercialization of advanced LIBs/LICs.

Topology Optimized Prelithiated SiO Anode Materials for Lithium-Ion Batteries

Silicon monoxide (SiO)-based materials have great potential as high-capacity anode materials for lithium-ion batteries. However, they suffer from a low initial coulombic efficiency (ICE) and poor cycle stability, which prevent their successful implementation into commercial lithium-ion batteries. Despite considerable efforts in recent decades, their low ICE and poor cycle stability cannot be resolved at the same time. Here, it is demonstrated that the topological optimization of the prelithiated SiO materials is highly effective in improving both ICE and capacity retention. Laser-assisted atom probe tomography combined with thermogravimetry and differential scanning calorimetry reveals that two exothermic reactions related to microstructural evolution are key in optimizing the domain size of the Si active phase and Li₂ SiO₃ buffer phase, and their topological arrangements in prelithiated SiO materials. The optimized prelithiated SiO, heat-treated at 650 °C, shows higher capacity retention of 73.4% and lower thickness changes of 68% after 300 cycles than those treated at other temperatures, with high ICE of ≈90% and reversible capacity of 1164 mAh g^-1 . Such excellent electrochemical properties of the prelithiated SiO electrode originate from its optimized topological arrangement of active Si phase and Li₂ SiO₃ inactive buffer phase.

In Situ Synthesis and Dual Functionalization of Nano Silicon Enabled by a Semisolid Lithium Rechargeable Flow Battery

Nanosized silicon has attracted considerable attentions as a new-generation anode material for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) due to its exceptional theoretical capacity and reasonable cyclic stability. However, serious side reactions often take place at the nanosized silicon/electrolyte interface in LIBs, where critical electrochemical properties such as initial Coulombic efficiency (ICE) are compromised. On the basis of this feature, a new method is developed to synthesize nanosilicon-based particles in a facile, scalable way, which are endowed with the function of prelithiation and storage stability in air. A semisolid lithium rechargeable flow battery (SSFB) technology is used for the first time to convert the micrometer-sized silicon raw material into an amorphous-nanosilicon-based material (ANSBM), as a result of the pulverization process induced by the repeated lithiation/delithiation cycles. The particle size is successfully reduced from 1-4 μm to around 30 nm after cycles in the flow battery. Bulk functionalization of the nano silicon is introduced by the unbalanced lithiation/delithiation cyclic process, which endows ANSBM with a unique prelithiation capability universally applicable to different anode systems such as nanosized Si, SiO_x, and graphite, as evidenced by the significantly improved ICEs. Superior air stability (10% relative humidity) is exhibited by ANSBM due to surface functionalization by the stable interfacial layer encapsulated by electron-conductive carbon. The outcome of this work provides a promising way to synthesize dual-functionalized nano silicon with good electrochemical performance in terms of improved capacity and increased initial Coulombic efficiency when it is composited with other typical anode materials.

Prelithiation Reagents and Strategies on High Energy Lithium-Ion Batteries

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have been widely employed in energy-storage applications owing to the relatively higher energy density and longer cycling life. However, they still need further improvement especially on the energy density to satisfy the increasing demands on the market. In this respect, the irreversible capacity loss (ICL) in the initial cycle is a critical challenge due to the lithium loss during the formation of solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) layer on the anode surface. The strategy of prelithiation was then proposed to compensate for the ICL in the anode and recover the energy density. Here, various methods of the prelithiation are summarized and classified according to the basic working mechanism. Further, considering the critical importance and promising progress of prelithiation in both fundamental research and real applications, this Review article is intended to discuss the considerations involved in the selection of prelithiation reagents/strategies and the electrochemical performance in full-cells. Moreover, insights are provided regarding the practical application prospects and the challenges that still need to be addressed.

Boosting Cyclability and Rate Capability of SiOx via Dopamine Polymerization-Assisted Hybrid Graphene Coating for Advanced Lithium-Ion Batteries

SiO_x suffers from the 200% volume change during cycling and low electronic conductivity, resulting in poor cyclability and rate capability as a lithium-ion battery anode. Herein, we demonstrate a dopamine polymerization-guided carbon coating for SiO_x anodes (SiO_x@PDA@GNH). SiO_x@PDA@GNH delivers charge capacities of 1269 and 1140 mA h·g^-1 at charge rates of 0.05 and 3 C, respectively, and a capacity retention of 79.60% after 150 cycles at 1 C. A full cell with LiNi_0.8Co_0.1Mn_0.1O₂ or cathode demonstrates a capacity retention of >80% after 100 cycles at the rate of 0.33 C with an area capacity over 3.2 mA h·cm^-2. Suppressed crack and overgrowth of the SEI layer are the key contributions for the improved performance. These results enlighten a practical pathway for the designing and modifications of SiO_x anodes for high energy density lithium-ion batteries.

Focusing on the Subsequent Coulombic Efficiencies of SiOx: Initial High-Temperature Charge after Over-Capacity Prelithiation for High-Efficiency SiOx-Based Full-Cell Battery

SiO_x-based anode materials are considered to be promising and have been gradually commercialized due to their high specific capacity as well as the acceptable volume change during lithiation/delithiation and preferable cycling stability compared to that of Si. Nevertheless, their inherently low Coulombic efficiency hinders the large-scale application. Up to now, researchers have paid much attention to the initial Coulombic efficiency and developed a series of effective prelithiation strategies. However, the subsequent cycles (focusing on the 2nd to 10th), during which the SiO_x anode suffers great lithium consumption as well, have received scarcely any concerns. In this work, a strategy of high-temperature (50 °C) initial charge after an overcapacity prelithiation for a SiO_x-based full-cell battery is proposed. As high temperature can promote the reaction between lithium and the SiO₂ matrix of SiO_x, SiO₂ will experience a one-step thorough reduction rather than gradual conversion in subsequent cycles, improving the subsequent Coulombic efficiencies (SCEs) accordingly. Overcapacity prelithiation can be achieved safely at 50 °C without Li metal depositon, just enough to meet the more initial lithium demand of anode at 50 °C. Furthermore, the initial deeper reduction of SiO₂ will release extra Si, improving the reversible capacity consequently. With the 50 °C initial charge after an overcapacity prelithiation, the full-cell battery exhibits considerable capacity retention as expected. This work raises concerns on SCEs of SiO_x-based anode innovatively, providing a feasible avenue for improving the capacity retention of a SiO_x-based full-cell battery.

Cryogenic Mechanical Prelithiation Reduces Porosity and Improves Battery Performance of an Alloy Foil Anode

Anode prelithiation could dramatically improve the initial Coulombic efficiency and battery life. Roll-to-roll mechanical prelithiation (MP) is an attractive option for achieving prelithiation in minutes. While our previous work on metallic-foil prelithiation revealed that an external pressure is necessary to achieve MP in a timely fashion, too high an applied pressure will cause severe damages in the form of porosity and cracking. Thus, gentler MP under smaller pressure, and surprisingly, cryogenic temperatures, while prepositioning prolific grain boundaries as lithium diffusion paths is critical. To this end, first, we developed an accumulative roll bonding (ARB) method to refine the grain size of Sn-5Sb foil for denser grain boundaries. After ARB of 12 cycles (ARB-12), the grain size of Sn-5Sb foil decreased from 20-50 to 0.5-1.5 μm. Then, MP was performed under a mild condition of 0.5 MPa and -20 °C. Thereby, the porosity of prelithiated ARB-12 was reduced to 1.8% from thickness measurement, significantly minimizing the prelithiation damage. As a result, due to grain refinement, we achieved lower interface impedance and better rate performance. The ARB-12 Sn-5Sb foil with a proper prelithiation design exhibited 180 and 110 stable cycles when pairing with commercial LFP and NCM811 cathodes. Furthermore, it also depletes less electrolyte and keeps higher capacity retention under -10 °C than that of the graphite anode.

A Review on Recent Advances for Boosting Initial Coulombic Efficiency of Silicon Anodic Lithium Ion batteries

Rechargeable silicon anode lithium ion batteries (SLIBs) have attracted tremendous attention because of their merits, including a high theoretical capacity, low working potential, and abundant natural sources. The past decade has witnessed significant developments in terms of extending the lifespan and maintaining high capacities of SLIBs. However, the detrimental issue of low initial Coulombic efficiency (ICE) toward SLIBs is causing more and more attention in recent years because ICE value is a core index in full battery design that profoundly determines the utilization of active materials and the weight of an assembled battery. Herein, a comprehensive review is presented of recent advances in solutions for improving ICE of SLIBs. From design perspectives, the strategies for boosting ICE of silicon anodes are systematically categorized into several aspects covering structure regulation, prelithiation, interfacial design, binder design, and electrolyte additives. The merits and challenges of various approaches are highlighted and discussed in detail, which provides valuable insights into the rational design and development of state-of-the-art techniques to deal with the deteriorative issue of low ICE of SLIBs. Furthermore, conclusions and future promising research prospects for lifting ICE of SLIBs are proposed at the end of the review.

Preactivation Strategy for a Wide Temperature Range In Situ Gel Electrolyte-Based LiNi0.5Co0.2Mn0.3O2∥Si-Graphite Battery

The silicon-based anode has been regarded as the most competitive anode candidate for next-generation lithium-ion batteries based on its high theoretical specific capacity. However, the severe volume expansion of the anode leads to undesirable cycling performance, hindering its further application in full cells. In this work, a preactivation method is carried out in a LiNi_0.5Co_0.2Mn_0.3O₂∥Si-graphite battery with an in situ gel electrolyte composed of carbonate solvents, lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF₆), β-cyanoethyl ether of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA-CN), and additive lithium difluoro(oxalato)borate (LiDFOB). After the charge-discharge test at ambient temperature (300 cycles), the capacity retention of the battery with the in situ gel electrolyte (75.4%) is impressively promoted compared with that with a base liquid electrolyte (45.7%). The in situ gelation and the strong solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) film effectively suppress the volume expansion of the anode, and the detected cathode transition metal elements on cycled anodes sharply decline. At an elevated temperature (55 °C), the cycle stability and Coulombic efficiency of the battery are also effectively improved. Meanwhile, the battery owns good rate capability and low-temperature performances similar to that with the liquid electrolyte. These results would provide a feasible solution for applying in situ gel electrolytes in wide temperature range batteries with Si-based anodes in practical applications.

Tuning Inactive Phases in Si-Ti-B Ternary Alloy Anodes to Achieve Stable Cycling for High-Energy-Density Lithium-Ion Batteries

Cycle stability improvement of a high-capacity Si anode is a challenge for its wide application in high-energy-density lithium-ion batteries. Active amorphous/nanosized Si embedded in an inactive matrix is a strategy to improve the cycle stability of Si anodes. Ternary Si_100-x-yTi_xB_y (5 ≤ y ≤ x ≤ 20) alloys are designed and prepared by ball milling using elemental Si, Ti, and B as starting materials. The formation sequence of inactive phases during mechanical alloying is predicted by an effective heat-of-formation model and verified by microstructural characterization. The local-fine distribution of free amorphous and nanocrystalline Si in the Si_100-x-yTi_xB_y is analyzed by confocal μ-Raman spectroscopy. When used as lithium-ion anodes, the capacity and voltage affected by Si and inactive compounds in the Si_100-x-yTi_xB_y are concerned to assess their high energy density. Furthermore, the impact of free active Si, the inactive phase, and amorphous Si on the cyclability of Si_100-x-yTi_xB_y is studied. The results show that the Si_100-x-yTi_xB_y material is a potential anode for high-energy-density Li-ion batteries and could be used to guide the design of multi-component Si-alloy anodes.

SiOx Anode: From Fundamental Mechanism toward Industrial Application

Silicon monoxide (SiO) has been explored and confirmed as a promising anode material of lithium-ion batteries. Compared with pure silicon, SiO possesses a more stable microstructure which makes better comprehensive electrochemical properties. However, the lithiation mechanism remains in dispute, and problems such as poor cyclability, unsatisfactory electrical conductivity, and low initial Coulombic efficiency (ICE) need to be addressed. Additionally, more attention needs to be paid on the internal relationship between electrochemical performances and structures. In this review, the different preparation processes, the derived microstructure of the SiO_x , the corresponding lithiation mechanism, and electrochemical properties are summarized. Researches about disproportionation reaction which is regarded as a key point and other modifications are systematically introduced. Closely linked with structure, the advantages and disadvantages of various SiO_x anode materials are summarized and analyzed, and the possible directions toward the practical applications of SiO_x anode material are presented. In a word, from the preparation and reaction mechanism of the material to the modifications and future development, a complete and systematical review on SiO_x anode is presented.

Understanding of the Mechanism Enables Controllable Chemical Prelithiation of Anode Materials for Lithium-Ion Batteries

By compensating the irreversible loss of lithium ions during the first cycle, prelithiations can solve the issue of insufficient initial Coulombic efficiency for various anodes. Recently, the chemical prelithiation using organolithium compounds has attracted increasing attention because of its uniform and fast reaction, safety, and easily adjustable degree of prelithiation. However, the nature and activity of organolithium involved in chemical prelithiations have not been deeply explored yet. Here, by monitoring the electrical conductivity change in the lithiation solution in the duration of its formation, we have demonstrated the essential role of lithium radical anions for chemical prelithiation and compared the prelithiation activity of dissociated species and aggregates of lithium radical anions. The mechanistic understanding of the nature of the lithiation solution leads to controllable chemical prelithiation, as demonstrated in full cells of prelithiated hard carbon and LiFePO₄.

Homogenizing Silicon Domains in SiOx Anode during Cycling and Enhancing Battery Performance via Magnesium Doping

SiOx (x ≈ 1) is one of the most promising anode materials for application in secondary lithium-ion batteries because of its high theoretical capacity. Despite this merit, SiOx has a poor initial Coulombic efficiency, which impedes its widespread use. To overcome this limitation, in this work, we successfully demonstrate a novel synthesis of Mg-doped SiOx via a mass-producible physical vapor deposition method. The solid-state reaction between Mg and SiOx produces Si and electrochemically inert magnesium silicate, thus increasing the initial Coulombic efficiency. The Mg doping concentration determines the phase of the magnesium silicate domains, the size of the Si domains, and the heterogeneity of these two domains. Detailed electron microscopy and synchrotron-based analysis revealed that the nanoscale homogeneity of magnesium silicates driven by cycling significantly affected the lifetime. We found that 8 wt % Mg is the most optimized concentration for enhanced cyclability because MgSiO3, which is the dominant magnesium silicate composition, can be homogeneously mixed with silicon clusters, preventing their aggregation during cycling and suppressing void formation.

Microscale Silicon-Based Anodes: Fundamental Understanding and Industrial Prospects for Practical High-Energy Lithium-Ion Batteries

To accelerate the commercial implementation of high-energy batteries, recent research thrusts have turned to the practicality of Si-based electrodes. Although numerous nanostructured Si-based materials with exceptional performance have been reported in the past 20 years, the practical development of high-energy Si-based batteries has been beset by the bias between industrial application with gravimetrical energy shortages and scientific research with volumetric limits. In this context, the microscale design of Si-based anodes with densified microstructure has been deemed as an impactful solution to tackle these critical issues. However, their large-scale application is plagued by inadequate cycling stability. In this review, we present the challenges in Si-based materials design and draw a realistic picture regarding practical electrode engineering. Critical appraisals of recent advances in microscale design of stable Si-based materials are presented, including interfacial tailoring of Si microscale electrode, surface modification of SiO_x microscale electrode, and structural engineering of hierarchical microscale electrode. Thereafter, other practical metrics beyond active material are also explored, such as robust binder design, electrolyte exploration, prelithiation technology, and thick-electrode engineering. Finally, we provide a roadmap starting with material design and ending with the remaining challenges and integrated improvement strategies toward Si-based full cells.

Graphite prelithiation by solid electrochemical corrosion of lithium metal with a superficial mosaic structure

A transformative concept of solid electrochemical corrosion has been put forward, in which solid-state electrolyte LiPON has been applied to replace the liquid one to prelithiate graphite with Li-metal. Thus, high prelithiation efficiency and low polarization of the treated anode can be obtained, with a unique mosaic structure left at the surface.

Green and Scalable Fabrication of Sandwich-like NG/SiOx/NG Homogenous Hybrids for Superior Lithium-Ion Batteries

SiOx is considered as a promising anode for next-generation Li-ions batteries (LIBs) due to its high theoretical capacity; however, mechanical damage originated from volumetric variation during cycles, low intrinsic conductivity, and the complicated or toxic fabrication approaches critically hampered its practical application. Herein, a green, inexpensive, and scalable strategy was employed to fabricate NG/SiOx/NG (N-doped reduced graphene oxide) homogenous hybrids via a freeze-drying combined thermal decomposition method. The stable sandwich structure provided open channels for ion diffusion and relieved the mechanical stress originated from volumetric variation. The homogenous hybrids guaranteed the uniform and agglomeration-free distribution of SiOx into conductive substrate, which efficiently improved the electric conductivity of the electrodes, favoring the fast electrochemical kinetics and further relieving the volumetric variation during lithiation/delithiation. N doping modulated the disproportionation reaction of SiOx into Si and created more defects for ion storage, resulting in a high specific capacity. Deservedly, the prepared electrode exhibited a high specific capacity of 545 mAh g-1 at 2 A g-1, a high areal capacity of 2.06 mAh cm-2 after 450 cycles at 1.5 mA cm-2 in half-cell and tolerable lithium storage performance in full-cell. The green, scalable synthesis strategy and prominent electrochemical performance made the NG/SiOx/NG electrode one of the most promising practicable anodes for LIBs.

Unraveling the New Role of Metal-Organic Frameworks in Designing Silicon Hollow Nanocages for High-Energy Lithium-Ion Batteries

Metal-organic framework (MOF)-derived materials are attracting considerable attention because of the moldability in compositions and structures, enabling greater performances in diverse applications. However, the nanostructural control of multicomponent MOF-based complexes remains challenging due to the complexity of reaction mechanisms. Herein, we present a surface-induced self-nucleation-growth mechanism for the zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF) to prepare a new type of ZIF-8@SiO₂ polyhedral nanoparticles. We discover that the Zn hydroxide moieties (Zn-OH) within ZIF-8 can trigger the hydrolysis of tetraethyl orthosilicate effectively on the ZIF-8 surface precisely, avoiding the formation of free orthosilicic acid (Si(OH)₄) successfully. This is a pioneering work to elucidate the importance of MOF surface properties for preparing multicomponent materials. Then, a novel well-dispersed silicon hollow nanocage (H-Si@C) modified by the carbon was prepared after removal of the ZIF-8 and magnesiothermic reduction. The as-prepared H-Si@C demonstrates an overwhelmingly high lithium storage capability and extraordinary stability in lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), particularly the impressive performances when it was matched with the LiNi_0.6Co_0.2Mn_0.2O₂ cathode in a full cell. The MOF surface-induced self-nucleation-growth strategy is useful for preparing more multifunctional materials, while the study of lithium storage performances of the H-Si@C material is practical for LIB applications.

A Prelithiation Separator for Compensating the Initial Capacity Loss of Lithium-Ion Batteries

Lithium loss during the initial charge process inevitably reduces the capacity and energy density of lithium-ion batteries. Cathode additives are favored with respect to their controllable prelithiation degree and scalable application; however, the insulating nature of their delithiation products retards electrode reaction kinetics in subsequent cycles. Herein, we propose a prelithiation separator by modifying a commercial separator with a Li₂S/Co nanocomposite to compensate for the initial capacity loss. The Li₂S/Co coating layer extracts active lithium ion during the charge process and shows a delithiation capacity of 993 mA h g^-1. When paired with a LiFePO₄|graphite full cell, the reversible capacity is increased from 112.6 to 150.3 mA h g^-1, leading to a 29.5% boost in the energy density. The as-prepared pouch cell also demonstrates a stable cycling performance. The excellent electrochemical performance and the scalable production of the prelithiation separator reveal its great potential in lithium-ion battery industry application.

Molecularly Compensated Pre-Metallation Strategy for Metal-Ion Batteries and Capacitors

The use of a sacrificial cathode additive as a pre-metallation method could ensure adequate metal sources for advanced energy storage devices. However, this pre-metallation technique suffers from the precise regulation of decomposition potential of additive. Herein, a molecularly compensated pre-metallation (Li/Na/K) strategy has been achieved through Kolbe electrolysis, in which the electrochemical oxidation potential of a metal carboxylate is manipulated by the bonding energy of the oxygen-metal (O-M) moiety. The electron-donating effect of the substituent and the low charge density of the cation can dramatically weaken the O-M bond strength, further bringing out the reduced potential. Thus, sodium acetate exhibits a superior pre-sodiation feature for sodium-ion battery accompanied with a large irreversible specific capacity of 301.8 mAh g^-1 , remarkably delivering 70.6 % enhanced capacity retention in comparison to the additive-free system after 100 cycles. This methodology has been extended to construct a high-performance lithium-ion battery and a lithium/sodium/potassium-ion capacitor.

Weakly Solvating Solution Enables Chemical Prelithiation of Graphite-SiOx Anodes for High-Energy Li-Ion Batteries

Although often overlooked in anode research, the anode's initial Coulombic efficiency (ICE) is a crucial factor dictating the energy density of a practical Li-ion battery. For next-generation anodes, a blend of graphite and Si/SiO_x represents the most practical way to balance capacity and cycle life, but its low ICE limits its commercial viability. Here, we develop a chemical prelithiation method to maximize the ICE of the blend anodes using a reductive Li-arene complex solution of regulated solvation power, which enables a full cell to exhibit a near-ideal energy density. To prevent structural degradation of the blend during prelithiation, we investigate a solvation rule to direct the Li⁺ intercalation mechanism. Combined spectroscopy and density functional theory calculations reveal that in weakly solvating solutions, where the Li⁺-anion interaction is enhanced, free solvated-ion formation is inhibited during Li⁺ desolvation, thereby mitigating solvated-ion intercalation into graphite and allowing stable prelithiation of the blend. Given the ideal ICE of the prelithiated blend anode, a full cell exhibits an energy density of 506 Wh kg^-1 (98.6% of the ideal value), with a capacity retention after 250 cycles of 87.3%. This work highlights the promise of adopting chemical prelithiation for high-capacity anodes to achieve practical high-energy batteries.

Design of Robust, Lithiophilic, and Flexible Inorganic-Polymer Protective Layer by Separator Engineering Enables Dendrite-Free Lithium Metal Batteries with LiNi0.8 Mn0.1 Co0.1 O2 Cathode

As a promising candidate for the high energy density cells, the practical application of lithium-metal batteries (LMBs) is still extremely hindered by the uncontrolled growth of lithium (Li) dendrites. Herein, a facile strategy is developed that enables dendrite-free Li deposition by coating highly-lithiophilic amorphous SiO microparticles combined with high-binding polyacrylate acid (SiO@PAA) on polyethylene separators. A lithiated SiO and PAA (lithiated-SiO/PAA) protective layer with synergistic flexible and robust features is formed on the Li metal anode via the in situ reaction to offer outstanding interfacial stability during long-term cycles. By suppressing the formation of dead Li and random Li deposition, reducing the side reaction, and buffering the volume changes during the lithium deposition and dissolution, such a protective layer realizes a dendrite-free morphology of Li metal anode. Furthermore, sufficient ionic conductivity, uniform lithium-ion flux, and interface adaptability is guaranteed by the lithiated-SiO and Li polyacrylate acid. As a result, Li metal anodes display significantly enhanced cycling stability and coulombic efficiency in Li||Li and Cu||Li cells. When the composite separator is applied in a full cell with a carbonate-based electrolyte and LiNi_0.8 Mn_0.1 Co_0.1 O₂ cathode, it exhibits three times longer lifespan than control cell at current density of 5 C.

Prelithiation: A Crucial Strategy for Boosting the Practical Application of Next-Generation Lithium Ion Battery

With the urgent market demand for high-energy-density batteries, the alloy-type or conversion-type anodes with high specific capacity have gained increasing attention to replace current low-specific-capacity graphite-based anodes. However, alloy-type and conversion-type anodes have large initial irreversible capacity compared with graphite-based anodes, which consume most of the Li⁺ in the corresponding cathode and severely reduces the energy density of full cells. Therefore, for the practical application of these high-capacity anodes, it is urgent to develop a commercially available prelithiation technique to compensate for their large initial irreversible capacity. At present, various prelithiation methods for compensating the initial irreversible capacity of the anode have been reported, but due to their respective shortcomings, large-scale commercial applications have not yet been achieved. In this review, we have systematically summarized and analyzed the advantages and challenges of various prelithiation methods, providing enlightenment for the further development of each prelithiation strategy toward commercialization and thus facilitating the practical application of high-specific-capacity anodes in the next-generation high-energy-density lithium-ion batteries.

Enabling SiOx/C Anode with High Initial Coulombic Efficiency through a Chemical Pre-Lithiation Strategy for High-Energy-Density Lithium-Ion Batteries

Carbon-coated SiO_x microparticles (SiO_x/C) demonstrate attractive potential for anode use in high-energy-density lithium-ion batteries due to high capacity and proper cycling stability. However, the excessive irreversible consumption of Li ions during the initial cycling remains a serious challenge arising from the limited lithium in full cells. Here, we endow SiO_x/C anode with high initial Coulombic efficiency using the chemical pre-lithiation strategy. The lithium silicate is uniformly pregenerated in SiO_x/C microparticles, which could effectively counteract the irreversible consumption of Li ions and avoid the complicated pre-lithiation process. Moreover, this strategy guarantees the structural integrity and processability of anode materials because of the homogeneous Li-organic complex solution pre-lithiation and high-temperature calcination process. The obtained SiO_x/C microparticles can be applied as anode materials by directly mixing with commercial graphite, which demonstrates proper specific capacity, high initial Coulombic efficiency, and excellent cycling performance. Furthermore, the pouch cells using LiNi_0.8Co_0.1Mn_0.1O₂ cathodes and the as-prepared anodes exhibit high energy density (301 Wh kg^-1) and satisfactory cycling stability (93.3% capacity retention after 100 cycles).