Advanced manufacturing of thin-film lithium metal anode by pulsed-laser deposition for next-generation solid-state batteries

Abstract

All-solid-state batteries (ASSBs) offer improved safety, energy density, and cycling stability compared to conventional lithium-ion batteries. Sulfide-based electrolytes stand out for their high ionic conductivity and ease of processing, though interfacial instability and lithium dendrite formation remain major challenges. This study explores Pulsed-Laser Deposition (PLD) as a precise and versatile technique to fabricate thin lithium metal anodes and conformal protective coatings. A 10 μm lithium layer and a 1 μm lithium lanthanum zirconium oxide (LLZO) layer are sequentially deposited on copper foil using PLD. The LLZO coating enhances interfacial stability with sulfide electrolytes, improving cycling performance. Unlike conventional fabrication methods, PLD enables controlled deposition of thin lithium metal anodes, contributing to higher energy density in ASSBs. Structural, microstructural and electrochemical characterizations confirm the high quality of both layers. Symmetric cell testing reveals that lithium anodes, both bare and LLZO-coated, cycle stably with low polarization. The LLZO interlayer reduces interfacial resistance and mitigates lithium dendrite growth, extending the cycle life. These results highlight PLD as a scalable and effective approach for engineering lithium metal anodes with tailored protective coatings, improving interfacial compatibility with sulfide-bases solid electrolytes and advancing the development of next-generation ASSBs. • PLD enables precise lithium metal anode fabrication for solid-state batteries. • Sequential deposition of lithium metal and LLZO layers achieved via PLD. • LLZO coating enhances interfacial stability and extends cycling life. • PLD-Li anode integrated with NMC cathode shows promising cycling performance.

Topics & Concepts