Three-dimensional matrix for lithium metal anode for next-generation rechargeable batteries: Structure design and interface engineering

The next-generation batteries with very high energy/power densities, affordable cost, safe operation are of paramount importance to electric vehicles and grid-scale storage. Lithium (Li) metal anode paired with conversion reaction cathodes (sulfur and oxygen) is regarded as a Holy Grail research because such battery system can employ earth-abundant elements and afford 3?5 times higher energy density than current lithium ion batteries (3500 Wh kg^-1 for lithium-oxygen batteries and 2600 Wh kg^-1 for lithium-sulfur batteries)[1].