ERI: Controlled Fast-charging Dynamics in Lithium Metal Batteries via Grid-structured Anodes

Rechargeable lithium metal batteries have the potential to significantly increase the energy density of next-generation electric transportation systems, including electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft and other advanced mobility platforms. However, their widespread adoption has been limited by persistent safety concerns, particularly internal short-circuiting caused by non-uniform lithium deposition that can lead to thermal runaway and catastrophic battery failure. This Engineering Research Initiation (ERI) project aims to establish a fundamental understanding of spatially resolved lithium transport and deposition through a novel grid-structured lithium metal anode architecture that enables real-time monitoring and control of electrochemical processes during battery operation. This research will provide new design principles for safer, high-performance rechargeable lithium metal batteries capable of fast charging, contributing to the advancement of energy storage technologies for electrified transportation, advanced manufacturing, and national competitiveness. The project also supports workforce development by training undergraduate and graduate students in electrochemical engineering, battery manufacturing, diagnostics, and advanced characterization techniques. The research will investigate the electrochemical transport phenomena and lithium plating behavior in grid-structured lithium metal anodes, focusing on the relationships among current distribution, ion transport, and localized lithium deposition during charging. Experimental studies will integrate spatially resolved electrochemical measurements with advanced materials characterization to monitor lithium-ion concentration, electrode behavior, and the onset of failure mechanisms. The project will also develop a dual-function separator that serves as a reference electrode to enable continuous, localized monitoring of battery conditions and investigate strategies for selectively deactivating regions where abnormal lithium deposition is detected. By establishing a mechanistic understanding of spatially resolved lithium deposition and demonstrating innovative approaches for active battery monitoring and control, this project will provide a foundation for safer, fast-charging lithium metal batteries. The resulting knowledge will accelerate the development of next-generation energy storage systems for aviation, transportation, and other high-performance applications while strengthening U.S. leadership in advanced battery manufacturing and energy technologies. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.