Ion-Conducting Channel Implanted Anode Matrix for All-Solid-State Batteries with High Rate Capability and Stable Anode/Solid Electrolyte Interface

All-solid-state batteries (ASSBs) are expected to be next-generation energy storage systems due to their high energy density and safety. However, their practical use has been limited by a poor rate capability caused by the Li dendrite growth. Under the operation with high current density, the Li migration rate at the interface between anode and solid electrolyte (SE) is faster than the Li replenishing rate by atom diffusion inside of Li, resulting in void formation at the interface between the anode and SE. These voids induce the increase in the localized current density, leading to the growth of Li dendrites. In this study, an ASSBs system is demonstrated with high rate capability by employing lithiated ZnO nanorods into Li. Lithiated ZnO nanorods, which are capable of Li-ion conduction, providing the passage for Li transportation from the Li bulk to the interface between the Li and SE, resulting in an improvement in the replenishing rate. The lithiated ZnO nanorods in Li enable interfacial integrity by suppressing the void formation at the Li/SE interface even under the high current density. ASSBs employing Li with lithiated ZnO nanorods exhibit stable cyclability without short circuit at 0.3 C during 300 cycles and excellent rate capability.