Article

A joint research team from POSTECH, KAIST, and Gyeongsang National University has developed an anode-free lithium metal battery achieving a volumetric energy density of 1,270 Wh/L, nearly double that of current lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles, which deliver around 650 Wh/L. This design eliminates the conventional anode, allowing lithium ions to deposit directly onto a copper current collector, maximizing energy storage.

To mitigate issues like dendrite formation and battery life degradation, the team implemented a dual strategy using a Reversible Host (RH) with silver nanoparticles and a Designed Electrolyte (DEL) that forms a protective layer on the lithium surface. The battery achieved an impressive retention of 81.9% of its initial capacity after 100 cycles and maintained a Coulombic efficiency of 99.6%. Performance was validated in pouch-type batteries, indicating strong potential for enhanced commercial viability.