Stabilizing\nGraphite Anode in Electrolytes with Nanoscale\nAnion Networking for High-Rate Lithium Storage

Graphite is the preferred anode material in commercial\nlithium-ion\nbatteries (LIBs), but its limited compatibility with various organic\nmolecules restricts the electrolyte solvent options. The primary challenge\nis solvent co-intercalation with Li ions, leading to graphite layer\nexfoliation. As a result, electrolyte selection often relies on ethylene\ncarbonate (EC)-based solvents. In this study, we introduce electrolytes\nfeaturing a nanoscale anion network ordering that hinders the liquid-phase\nexfoliation of graphite. This network, formed from concentrated long-chain\nlithium salts, traps free dioxolane (DOL) molecules, reducing the\ninteractions between graphite particles and solvents during Li intercalation.\nOur findings reveal a mechanism that stabilizes graphite in otherwise\nunstable solvents with concentrated salts like LiTFSI, providing key\ninsights for improving LIB performance by addressing electrolyte limitations\non graphite anodes.