High-rate capability and enhanced cyclability of rechargeable lithium batteries using foam lithium anode

A secondary lithium battery system was developed using a foam lithium electrode. The foam lithium was prepared by lithium electrodepositing on a foam Ni substrate in an organic electrolyte consisting of ethylene carbonate:diethyl carbonate (1:1) containing 1 M LiPF6. Scanning electron microscope photos showed that the foam lithium had a 3D fabric similar to the foam Ni substrate. AC impedance revealed that the interfacial resistance of the foam lithium anode was more steady and lower than that of lithium foil with the cycle increasing. The cyclic efficiency of the foam lithium anode was considerably improved by about 12% in comparison with the lithium foil anode at a charge/discharge rate of 1 mA cm-2. The results of a complete cell cycle test showed that the high-rate capability and cyclic efficiency of the rechargeable lithium battery system was improved significantly by using a large surface foam lithium anode.