Emerging Atomic Layer Deposition for the Development of High-Performance Lithium-Ion Batteries

With the increasing demand for low-cost and environmentally friendly energy, the application of rechargeable lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) as reliable energy storage devices in electric cars, portable electronic devices and space satellites is on the rise. Therefore, extensive and continuous research on new materials and fabrication methods is required to achieve the desired enhancement in their electrochemical performance. Battery active components, including the cathode, anode, electrolyte, and separator, play an important role in LIB functionality. The major problem of LIBs is the degradation of the electrolyte and electrode materials and their components during the charge-discharge process. Atomic layer deposition (ALD) is considered a promising coating technology to deposit uniform, ultrathin films at the atomic level with controllable thickness and composition. Various metal films can be deposited on the surface of active electrodes and solid electrolyte materials to tailor and generate a protective layer at the electrode interface. In addition, synthesis of microbatteries and novel nanocomplexes of the cathode, anode, and solid-state electrolyte to enhance the battery performance can all be attained by ALD. Therefore, the ALD technique has great potential to revolutionize the future of the battery industry. This review article provides a comprehensive foundation of the current state of ALD in synthesizing and developing LIB active components. Additionally, new trends and future expectations for the further development of next-generation LIBs via ALD are reported.