Non-aqueous Metal Battery Chemistry

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Metal anodes (Na, Li) offer unmatched specific capacities but suffer from unstable metal–electrolyte interfaces and safety issues related to dendritic growth and SEI instability. At EIS Lab, we are developing highly tunable non-aqueous electrolytes—including ether-, carbonate-, and ionic liquid-based systems—coupled with electrolyte additives to stabilize metal deposition. We investigate nucleation overpotentials, Coulombic efficiency trends, and interfacial impedance evolution during cycling using advanced electrochemical techniques. Particular focus is placed on interfacial thermodynamics, SEI composition (organic vs. inorganic), and the role of electrolyte solvation on interfacial layer stability. We are also developing surface-modified current collectors to direct uniform metal growth and prevent high-field regions that promote dendrite initiation.