Finite-Element Modeling of Lithium Electrodeposition on Non-Flat Anode Surfaces

Lithium (Li) metal as the anode for rechargeable batteries can promise high energy density. Its practical employment, however, requires an understanding of dendrite-mitigating strategies to ensure reversible and safe energy storage operation. Herein, we have applied continuum-level, finite-element modeling to monitor the kinetics of dendrite growth for non-flat anode surfaces. Our simulation results for Li plating morphologies on various surface topologies imply that excessive Li dendrite growth can be suppressed by reducing localized perturbations of diffusion potential gradient. Optimally-spaced, half-circular surface arrays with low electrical conductivity can direct Li ions toward the high conductivity anode base, promoting delocalized charge transfer reactions throughout the anode surface for uniform Li plating at a given overpotential. Our work suggests that engineering anode surfaces can be an effective approach to advancing battery technologies using Li metal.