Biomass-derived 3D carbon host materials for stable lithium metal anodes

Currently, there is a growing interest in lithium (Li) metal batteries (LMBs) due to their exceptionally high energy density. Lithium metal anodes (LMAs), as the central component of LMBs, offer significantly higher capacity and lower redox potential compared to conventional graphite anodes, which has led to increased research attention. However, LMAs are still confronted with several interconnected challenges, including the formation of solid electrolyte interphase (SEI), dendritic lithium growth, and volume changes. Recent advances have highlighted the potential of biomass-derived 3D carbon hosts as a promising solution to these problems. These porous 3D carbon hosts are effective in homogenizing local current density and mitigating volume changes in LMAs, which in turn reduces SEI formation and lithium dendrite growth. This review comprehensively summarizes recent progress in 3D carbon host materials derived from various biomass sources and elucidates their mechanisms for enhancing the electrochemical performance of LMAs. It is anticipated that this review will encourage further research into the development of 3D carbon hosts for improved LMA performance.