The stability and performance of lithium-metal batteries are heavily influenced by how lithium atoms first cluster together, or nucleate, on the anode surface. A new physics-based framework reveals that this critical process follows two distinct pathways: one controlled by the underlying metal substrate and another governed by the solid-electrolyte interphase layer. By modeling the interplay of short-range ion transport and reaction kinetics, the work provides a clearer blueprint for controlling lithium deposit morphology to prevent dangerous dendrite growth.
Why it might matter to you:
For a medicinal chemist, the principles of controlled nucleation and interfacial engineering are directly analogous to designing drug formulations or delivery systems where crystal morphology and stability are paramount. Understanding these fundamental pathways in battery science could inform strategies for stabilizing sensitive active pharmaceutical ingredients or optimizing the solid-state properties of novel drug candidates, particularly those involving metal complexes or requiring specific solid forms for efficacy.
If you wish to receive daily, weekly, biweekly or monthly personalized briefings like this, please.
Stay curious. Stay informed — with
Science Briefing.