A review of biomass-derived carbon materials for lithium metal anodes

Because of its high theoretical capacity and lowest reduction potential, lithium metal has been considered the “Holy Grail” anode material for high energy density battery systems. However, the practical use of lithium metal anodes (LMAs) has been plagued by a series of problems such as the inability of lithium metal to act as a host for other atoms, uncontrollable lithium dendrite growth, unstable solid-electrolyte interfaces, and “dead” lithium accumulation. Biomass-derived carbon materials are considered ideal host materials for Li metal because of their high mechanical strength, high conductivity, high surface area, and good chemical stability. This review presents a historical framework of using biomass-derived carbon materials as a framework for LMAs. The design and use of biomass-derived carbon materials in suppressing Li dendrite growth and constructing stable LMAs are summarized. The impact of the structure, porosity and “lithiophilicity” modification on the performance of LMAs is discussed. Prospects for the use of biomass-derived carbon materials and the challenges faced are suggested.