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Development of anode-free lithium-metal battery technology

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2026-09-28 23:11 UTC → 2026-10-02 01:35 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Researchers from KAIST, Kyungpook National University, and the National NanoFab Center have developed a new design for anode-free lithium-metal batteries aimed at increasing energy density and range for electric vehicles and drones. The technology utilizes a semiconductor-based ‘second sputtering lithography’ (SSL) process to create microscopic tube-like structures on a copper current collector. This method increases the lithium contact area by approximately four times compared to flat plates, promoting even lithium deposition and preventing the formation of dendrites—needle-like growths that cause degradation and safety risks. To further enhance stability, the team applied an ultra-thin MXene coating to the copper plate. This layer acts as a primer that facilitates the formation of a robust lithium fluoride (LiF) protective shield, which minimizes unnecessary reactions between lithium and electrolytes while suppressing dendrite growth. This approach seeks to maintain the lightweight advantages of anode-free designs without the weight penalties associated with traditional methods of extending battery life. Recent reports confirm that the KAIST team has successfully applied these semiconductor microfabrication techniques to create sub-micron tubular arrays on copper foil. This specific structural advancement, paired with the 10-nanometer MXene coating, helps prevent destructive lithium dendrites without requiring changes to existing electrolyte formulas.

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