An Ultralow‐concentration and Moisture‐resistant Electrolyte of Lithium Difluoro(oxalato)borate in Carbonate Solvents for Stable Cycling in Practical Lithium‐ion Batteries

Abstract

AbstractThe electrolyte concentration not only impacts the battery performance but also affects the battery cost and manufacturing. Currently, most studies focus on high‐concentration (>3 M) or localized high‐concentration electrolytes (~1 M); however, the expensive lithium salt imposes a major concern. Most recently, ultralow concentration electrolytes (<0.3 M) have emerged as intriguing alternatives for battery applications, which feature low cost, low viscosity, and extreme‐temperature operation. However, at such an early development stage, many works are urgently needed to further understand the electrolyte properties. Herein, we introduce an ultralow concentration electrolyte of 2 wt % (0.16 M) lithium difluoro(oxalato)borate (LiDFOB) in standard carbonate solvents. This electrolyte exhibits a record‐low salt/solvent mass ratio reported to date, thus pointing to a superior low cost. Furthermore, this electrolyte is highly compatible with commercial Li‐ion materials, forming stable and inorganic‐rich interphases on the lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) cathode and graphite anode. Consequently, the LiCoO2‐graphite full cell demonstrates excellent cycling performance. Besides, this electrolyte is moisture‐resistant and effectively suppresses the generation of hydrogen fluoride, which will markedly facilitate the battery assembly and recycling process under ambient conditions.