Combined Stabilizing of the Solid-Electrolyte Interphase with Suppression of Graphite Exfoliation via Additive-Solvent Optimization in Li-Ion Batteries

Propylene carbonate (PC) is a promising solvent for extending the operating temperature range for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) because of its high dielectric constant and wide temperature range stability. However, PC can cause graphite exfoliation through cointercalation, leading to electrolyte decomposition and subsequent irreversible capacity loss. This work reports the formulation of a ternary electrolyte with the introduction of an inorganic salt additive, potassium hexafluorophosphate (KPF6), to address the aforementioned concerns. We demonstrate the cumulative effect of solvent and additive on delivering multiple performance benefits and safety of the battery. The faster diffusion rate of K + solvation shell decreases the rate of PC decomposition, thereby reducing its cointercalation. Additionally, the optimum concentration of KPF6, i.e., 0.1 M constructs a robust and insoluble LiF-rich electrode/electrolyte interphase, further suppressing graphite exfoliation and Li dendrite formation. The stable cyclability is achieved by enhanced Li + transportation through the LiF-rich interphase, enabling an exfoliation-free and dendrite-free graphite anode in the ternary electrolyte.

Controlling Li Dendritic Growth in Graphite Anodes by Potassium Electrolyte Additives for Li-Ion Batteries

Fast charging promotes Li dendrite formation and its growth on graphite anodes, which affects cell performance in Li-ion batteries (LIBs). This work reports the formation of a robust SEI layer by introducing a KPF₆ inorganic additive into the electrolyte. An optimal concentration of 0.001 M KPF₆ effectively inhibits the growth of Li dendrites at 2C charging rates, compared with a commercial electrolyte. Electrolytes containing a KPF₆ additive are shown here to deliver dual effects to mitigate the growth of dendrites. A thin LiF-rich SEI layer is formed on graphite, which blocks the electron leakage pathways. Additionally, K⁺ resides at defect sites (such as particle boundaries) due to its faster diffusion rate and blocks the incoming Li⁺ and restricts the growth of Li dendrites. The electrolyte with optimum concentration of KPF₆, i.e., 0.001 M, effectively directs Li⁺ transport through the thin, durable, and low resistance LiF-rich SEI layer. This has implications for fast charging through optimization of the electrode/electrolyte interphase by controlling additive concentrations.