Silicon-based anodes are considered a promising alternative for next-generation lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) due to their high theoretical capacity, which is significantly greater than that of traditional graphite anodes. However, the inherent challenge of the associated low initial Coulombic efficiency (ICE) due to irreversible lithium consumption limits their practical applications. Prelithiation techniques have emerged as a solution to compensate for this initial lithium loss, but current methods often face challenges such as high costs, incomplete lithiation, and complex setups. In this study, we present a novel modified direct contact prelithiation method utilizing a Li-ion-free biphenyl solution. This innovative approach integrates the advantages of both direct contact and wet chemical prelithiation, achieving fast, uniform, and cost-effective prelithiation of Si-based anodes. Electrochemical characterizations demonstrate that the method significantly enhances ICE, reaching from 66.7% to 115.4% after 10 minutes of prelithiation for SiOx anodes and from 91.4% to 100.5% after just 90 seconds of prelithiation for Si anodes, while also stabilizing open-circuit voltage. Furthermore, microstructural analyses reveal the formation of a distinct solid electrolyte interphase layer after prelithiation. XPS depth profiling confirms the progressive lithiation of Si-based anodes, highlighting the formation of lithium oxide and lithium silicate compounds at varying depths with extended prelithiation times. These findings demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed integrated prelithiation method in enhancing the electrochemical performance of Si-based anodes, paving the way for the development of high-energy-density LIBs.
The development of high-energy-density and high-safety lithium-ion batteries requires advancements in electrolytes. The state-of-the-art carbonate electrolyte faces challenges for operation at high voltage and has low thermal stability. This study proposes an ionic liquid/ether composite high-entropy electrolyte that consists of N-propyl-N-methylpyrrolidinium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (PMP–TFSI) ionic liquid, dimethoxymethane (DME), lithium difluoro(oxalato)borate (LiDFOB), fluoroethylene carbonate (FEC), and 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethyl-2,2,3,3-tetrafluoropropyl ether (TTE). In this electrolyte, a unique coordination structure forms, where Li+ is surrounded in a high-entropy environment consisting of DME, FEC, TTE, TFSI–, DFOB–, and PMP+. The effects of this solution structure on the solid-electrolyte interphase chemistry and Li+ desolvation kinetics are examined. The proposed electrolyte has low flammability, high thermal stability, negligible corrosivity toward an Al current collector, and ability to withstand a high potential of up to 5 V without showing a significant side reaction current. Importantly, this electrolyte is highly compatible with graphite and SiOx anodes, as well as a high-nickel LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 cathode. Operando X-ray diffraction data confirm that the co-intercalation of DME and PMP+ into the graphite lattice, a long-standing challenge, is eliminated with this electrolyte. Graphite, SiOx, and LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 electrodes all exhibit better rate capability and cycling stability in the proposed electrolyte compared to those measured in a conventional carbonate electrolyte. A 4.5-V LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2//graphite full cell with the proposed high-entropy electrolyte is shown to have superior specific capacity, rate capability, and cycling stability, demonstrating the great potential of the proposed electrolyte for practical applications.
I am thrilled to share some wonderful news—I have been promoted to Associate Professor! This milestone is not just a recognition of my individual efforts but a testament to the incredible journey I’ve had with the most talented, hardworking, and dedicated students and team members.
From our shared late nights in the lab to celebrating breakthroughs and overcoming challenges, none of this would have been possible without your passion, resilience, and commitment to excellence. Each of you has contributed to making our research meaningful and impactful.
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has been a part of this journey—mentors who guided me, colleagues who supported me, and students who inspired me daily. Your collaboration and enthusiasm have made every challenge an opportunity to grow.
This promotion motivates me to push the boundaries of knowledge further, mentor with greater purpose, and continue building an environment where innovation thrives. Here's to achieving new heights together!
Thank you all for being an essential part of this journey. Let’s keep moving forward!
YS
