Dendrite growth in flowing electrolyte under multiphysics coupling effects

Lithium-ion batteries, as a critical pillar in the field of new energy, face challenges in further development because of the lithium dendrite issue at the anode. This study established a phase-field model to investigate the effects of charging protocols and external pressure on dendrite growth under static electrolyte conditions. Additionally, the study emphasizes the influence of electrolyte flow, with a specific focus on investigating the interplay among charging protocols, external pressure, and electrolyte flow rates in modulating dendrite growth within a dynamic electrolyte environment. Results demonstrate that pulsed-voltage charging significantly suppresses dendrite formation, with enhanced inhibition observed at lower duty cycles. External pressure exhibits a positive correlation with dendrite suppression up to a critical threshold. Notably, the synergistic combination of pulsed-voltage charging, optimized external pressure, and directional electrolyte flow achieves the most effective suppression of dendritic growth.