PECVD-derived graphene nanowall/lithium composite anodes towards highly stable lithium metal batteries

Abstract Lithium (Li) metal has been recognized as an “ultimate” anode material for the next-generation rechargeable batteries. However, the challenges induced by Li dendrites on a working Li anode would cause cell short and expose the Li-metal batteries to wide safety concerns. The design of Li plating hosts that synergize excellent conductivity, unique nano-architecture and superb lithiophilic nature has been proven to be one of the most promising strategies to alleviate the dendrite issue of Li. Nevertheless, current 3-dimensional conductive hosts still need to be further improved to meet the vast Li deposition under high power conditions. Herein, vertical erected graphene nanowall-coated copper foams (Cu@VG) prepared via plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition are adopted as highly lithiophilic host materials to regulate Li nucleation and suppress dendrite growth. The unique design of the Cu@VG host is featured by its flexibility, huge reaction interface and ample lithiophilic sites (topological defects and oxygen-containing groups), which enables a dendrite-free morphology and a high cycling efficiency over 99.0% and excellent cycling stability up to 1875 cycles at a high current density of 5 mA cm −2 . The combined advantages of the Cu@VG host also guarantee the construction of Cu@VG@Li||LiNi 0.5 Co 0.2 Mn 0.3 O 2 full cells with enhanced rate capability and prolonged lifespan.