Electrodeposition and Dissolution of In Situ formed Lithium and Sodium Metal Electrodes

Solid-state batteries consisting of lithium or sodium metal electrodes made using the anode-free manufacturing process are garnering significant interest. Anode-free manufacturing eliminates the need to handle and prevent oxidation and produces pure metal electrodes. However, little is known about the properties and mechano electrochemical behavior of these metal electrodes. Collaborative research conducted within the Department of Energy, Energy Frontier Research Center (Mechano-chemical Understanding of Solid Ion Conductors (MUSIC)) is exploring methods to characterize the behavior and properties of electrodeposited and electro dissolved lithium and sodium. Two model solid electrolyte systems were selected for this research based on their high conductivity and stability against their respective metal electrodes; LLZO for lithium and NaSICON for sodium. The results of this work will deepen the fundamental understanding of <i>in situ</i> formed lithium and sodium and advance commercialization of viable solid-state battery technology.