Controlling Li Dendritic Growth in Graphite Anodes by Potassium Electrolyte Additives for Li-Ion Batteries

Fast charging of present-day graphite anodes in lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) is essential to effectively decrease the charging time of electric vehicles (EVs), hence, reducing the usage of nonrenewable energies and their emissions. However, Li dendrite formation and growth is the key obstacle in the path of fast charging, which affects the cell performance. This is due to a triggering of side reactions such as excessive electrolyte decomposition, thickening electrode/electrolyte interphase (solid electrolyte interphase - SEI), increased resistance to Li+ transportation. To help mitigate these phenomena, an inorganic salt KPF6 has been selected as an electrolyte additive to control Li dendritic growth.