Abstract
Next generation batteries seek to utilize metal electrodes due to their increased gravimetric and volumetric energy density compared to intercalation electrodes. Single-ion conducting solid electrolytes are viewed as a promising candidate to aid in the adoption of metal electrodes as they are mechanically stiff, possess high ionic conductivity, and may improve safety relative to conventional liquid electrolytes. Solid-state batteries are often constructed with an external stack pressure, and plating and stripping of the metal electrode leads to variable stress states in the cell during operation. The mechanical state of a material affects its thermodynamic state and can thereby lead to variations in the current distribution in the cell. This talk will focus on the effect of interfacial mechanics on the thermodynamic state of metal electrodes and single-ion conducting electrolytes. Experimental results and mechanics models will be shown to demonstrate the relationship. Disagreements in the literature regarding the appropriate stress terms to use when assessing the effect of mechanics on interfacial thermodynamics will be discussed. The talk will address how our new results can help to guide the development of future electro-chemo-mechanical plating and stripping stability models.