IEST GVM2200 Facilitates CATL’s Breakthrough Study in Nature Nanotechnology: Unraveling Novel Interfacial Reactions In Lithium Metal Batteries

1. Introduction

Recently, research independently conducted by the team of Chuying Ouyang and Hansen Wang from CATL’s 21C Innovation Laboratory was published in the premier journal Nature Nanotechnology, titled “Application-driven design of non-aqueous electrolyte solutions through quantification of interfacial reactions in lithium metal batteries.“ This study employs multi-scale characterization techniques to quantitatively resolve decomposition pathways of ether-based electrolyte salts and solvents for the first time, proposing an innovative electrolyte design strategy that significantly extends lithium metal batteries (LMB) cycle life. Notably, critical gas solubility data underpinning the failure mechanism analysis were obtained using IEST in-situ gas volume monitor (GVM2200), providing essential experimental validation.

2. Research Background: Challenges and Opportunities in Lithium Metal Batteries

Lithium metal batteries are regarded as next-generation energy storage solutions due to their ultra-high energy density, yet commercialization faces two key hurdles:

2.1 Parasitic reactions between Li metal and electrolyte:

Continuous solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) formation consumes active lithium and electrolyte, leading to failure.

2.2 Ambiguous decomposition mechanisms

Conventional studies lack quantitative interfacial reaction analysis, hindering electrolyte optimization.

To address this, the team integrated titration-demission mass spectrometry (T-DEMS), extraction-gas/chromatography (E-G&IC), and IEST’s GVM2200 in-situ testing technology to quantitatively track electrolyte decomposition routes.

3. Pivotal Role of IEST GVM2200: Quantifying CO₂ Solubility

The study revealed that oxidation of DME solvent at the cathode generates CO₂, which migrates to the anode via inter-electrode crosstalk, reacting with lithium to form Li₂CO₃ (4Li + 3CO₂ → 2Li₂CO₃ + C). This process critically contributes to active lithium loss. IEST GVM2200 quantified CO₂ solubility in real-time by monitoring volume changes via Archimedes’ principle. Results corroborated with theoretical simulations clarified CO₂ crosstalk’s impact on performance, providing key parameters for electrolyte design.

4. Innovative Electrolyte Design: From Mechanism to Application

Based on these insights, an electrolyte strategy combining high-salt concentration and low-viscosity diluents was proposed:

• Maximized LiFSI content: High salt concentration delays Li⁺ depletion.
• Low-MW diluents (e.g., BTFE, benzene): Reduce viscosity (3.3 mPa·s) while maintaining high ionic conductivity (4.1 mS/cm).

Using optimized electrolyte (LiFSI-1.2DME-3BTFE), a 20μm-thick Li anode || NMC811 cell under lean electrolyte conditions (2.1 g/Ah) achieved 483 cycles with 77% capacity retention—>80% improvement over conventional formulations.

5. IEST: Enabling Cutting-Edge Research with Precision Tools

This study demonstrates the value of IEST GVM2200 in-situ gas volume monitor (shown below) in high-impact research:

• High sensitivity: Detects minute volume changes from gas dissolution/side reactions.
• Broad compatibility: Withstands harsh experimental conditions in lithium metal batteries.
• Data reproducibility: Provides reliable benchmarks for modeling and engineering.

IEST remains committed to advancing in-situ characterization solutions for energy materials research, accelerating breakthroughs in battery technology.

6. IEST Instrument: Word-leading Innovative Lithium Battery Testing Solutions Provider

IEST Instrument a pioneer in lithium-ion battery testing, is dedicated to delivering efficient and cutting-edge testing solutions for global electrochemical energy storage, empowering clients to achieve R&D breakthroughs and quality enhancement. The company’s core team comprises seasoned experts in materials science, electrochemistry, and automation, backed by over 100 authorized patents. Its testing equipment has been widely adopted in power batteries, energy storage systems, and materials science research, serving clients across more than 20 countries and regions, including China, Europe, North America, and Southeast Asia. To date, IEST has provided world-leading innovative testing solutions to over 900 global customers, earning widespread recognition for its technological excellence and industry impact.