Lithium Metal Anode Engineering: from Current Collectors to Hosts

Lithium metal anodes are regarded as the key material for next-generation high-energy-density batteries due to their ultrahigh theoretical specific capacity (3860 mAh g⁻¹) and extremely low electrochemical potential (-3.04 V vs. SHE). However, their practical application is severely restricted by lithium dendrite growth, volume fluctuation, and interfacial side reactions. This paper reviews the regulation strategies in recent years from three dimensions: current collector engineering, electrolyte engineering, and anode host engineering. Current collector engineering regulates lithium deposition through lithiophilic modification and three-dimensional structure design. Electrolyte engineering optimizes solvents, additives, and polymer electrolytes to stabilize the interface. Anode host engineering alleviates volume effects by using three-dimensional frameworks and alloying strategies. This paper aims to provide a theoretical reference for the design of high-safety and long-life lithium metal batteries.