Towards lithium-free solid-state batteries with nanoscale Ag/Cu sputtered bilayer electrodes

Abstract

Enhancing the reversible Li growth efficiency in “Li-free” solid-state batteries is key for the deployment of this technology. Here, we demonstrate a nanoscale material design path that enables the reversible cycling of a lithium-free solid-state battery, using Li₇La₃Zr₂O₁₂ (LLZO) electrolyte. By means of nanometric Ag–Cu bilayers, directly sputtered onto the LLZO, we can effectively control Li deposition. The robust thin film bilayer, which is compatible with LLZO, enables stable cycling, accommodating the volume changes without the need for extra external pressure.