Optimization of lithium nucleation by current density toward dendrite-free Li metal anode

• A simple way to realize dendrite-free Li deposition on Cu substrate is developed through high current density activation. • Uniform and dense Li seeds layer decreases the barrier for Li electrodeposition. • LiF-rich solid electrolyte interface is generated by the high current density. • Remarkable improvement in cycling stability of Li metal pouch cells is realized. The electrodeposition of lithium on heterogeneous substrates is often loose and uneven owing to the lithiophobic nature of most substrates, which causes deterioration of cell performance and ultimately cell failure. In this paper, a simple high current density induced uniform nucleation of Li on Cu substrate is presented to solve this problem. The as-obtained Li seeds with small and uniform size fully cover the surface of Cu, which is conducive to dense and even electrodeposition of Li afterwards. The LiF-rich solid electrolyte interface generated by the high current density on the Li seeds also helps to inhibit the formation of dendritic lithium. The pouch cell employing this strategy demonstrates remarkable improvement in cycling stability.