A cost-effective, ionically conductive and compressible oxychloride solid-state electrolyte for stable all-solid-state lithium-based batteries

Abstract

To enable the development of all-solid-state batteries, an inorganic solid-state electrolyte should demonstrate high ionic conductivity (i.e., > 1 mS cm ⁻¹ at 25 °C), compressibility (e.g., > 90% density under 250−350 MPa), and cost-effectiveness (e.g., < $50/kg). Here we report the development and preparation of Li _1.75ZrCl _4.75O _0.5 oxychloride solid-state electrolyte that demonstrates an ionic conductivity of 2.42 mS cm ⁻¹ at 25 °C, a compressibility enabling 94.2% density under 300 MPa and an estimated raw materials cost of $11.60/kg. As proof of concept, the Li _1.75ZrCl _4.75O _0.5 is tested in combination with a LiNi _0.8Mn _0.1Co _0.1O ₂-based positive electrode and a Li ₆PS ₅Cl-coated Li-In negative electrode in lab-scale cell configuration. This all-solid-state cell delivers a discharge capacity retention of 70.34% (final discharge capacity of 70.2 mAh g ⁻¹) after 2082 cycles at 1 A g ⁻¹, 25 °C and 1.5 tons of stacking pressure.

Abstract

Ionic conductivity > 1 mS cm ⁻¹ at 25 °C, compressibility enabling > 90% density at 250 − 350 MPa, and cost < $50/kg are desirable for inorganic solid-state electrolytes. Here, the authors report Li _1.75ZrCl _4.75O _0.5 as a solid-state electrolyte capable of satisfying these requirements simultaneously.