ELECTRODE PROTECTION IN BOTH AQUEOUS AND NON-AQUEOUS ELECTROCHEMICAL CELLS, INCLUDING RECHARGEABLE LITHIUM BATTERIES

摘要

Electrode protection in electrochemical cells, and more specifically, electrode protection in both aqueous and non-aqueous electrochemical cells, including rechargeable lithium batteries, are presented. In one embodiment, an electrochemical cell includes an anode comprising lithium and a multi-layered structure positioned between the anode and an electrolyte of the cell. A multi-layered structure can include at least a first single-ion conductive material layer (e.g., a lithiated metal layer), and at least a first polymeric layer positioned between the anode and the single-ion conductive material. The invention also can provide an electrode stabilization layer positioned within the electrode to control depletion and re-plating of electrode material upon charge and discharge of a battery. Advantageously, electrochemical cells described herein are not only compatible with environments that are typically unsuitable for lithium, but the cells may be also capable of displaying long cycle life, high lithium cycling efficiency, and high energy density.

主权项

1. An anode for use in an electrochemical cell, comprising:
a first electroactive layer comprising an active electrode species; a second electroactive layer comprising the active electrode species, wherein the anode is adapted and arranged such that when the anode is present in an electrochemical cell, at least some of the active electrode species in the second electroactive layer is depleted upon discharge of the electrochemical cell; and a protective structure comprising a polymeric material and/or an ion conductive material, wherein the protective structure separates the first electroactive layer from the second electroactive layer.