Revealing Epitaxial\nDeposition in Alkali Metal Batteries

Alkali metal batteries have high energy densities required\nto power\nfuture devices; however, uneven metal deposition is a critical barrier\nto achieving long lifespans. We have developed an elegant noncryogenic\ntransmission electron microscopy method which has facilitated the\nfirst observations of epitaxial deposition in alkali metal batteries.\nUsing this method, we have confirmed epitaxial interactions between\n(002) sodium crystallite planes and (01–11) planes in zinc\ncurrent collectors. Such epitaxial interactions decrease nucleation\nenergy barriers and promote even metal growth. This study offers fresh\ninspiration for the development of electron microscopy techniques\ntailored to electron-sensitive battery materials and sets a new agenda\nfor the development of battery technologies.