Duality of Li₂CO₃ in Solid-State Batteries

Abstract

Solid-state batteries (SSBs) have been considered the most promising technology because of their superior energy density and safety. Among all the solid-state electrolytes (SEs), Li₇La₃Zr₂O₁₂ (LLZO) with high ionic conductivity (3 × 10⁻⁴ S/cm) has been widely investigated. However, its large-scale production in ambient air faces a challenge. After air exposure, the generated Li₂CO₃ layer deteriorates the ionic conductivity and interfacial wettability, thus greatly compromising the electrochemical performance of SSBs. Many works aim to eliminate this layer to recover the pristine LLZO surface. Unfortunately, few articles have emphasized the merits of Li₂CO₃. In this review, we focus on the two-sidedness of Li₂CO₃. We discuss the various characteristics of Li₂CO₃ that can be used and recapitulate the strategies that utilize Li₂CO₃. Insulating Li₂CO₃ is no longer an obstacle but an opportunity for realizing intimate interfacial contact, high air stability, and outstanding electrochemical performance. This review aims to offer insightful guidelines for treating air-induced Li₂CO₃ and lead to developing the enhanced air stability and electrochemical performance of LLZO.

Graphical Abstract

Keywords

Solid-state battery / Garnet / Li₇La₃Zr₂O₁₂ / Li₂CO₃

References

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