Synergistic Effects of Cu(OH)₂‐CuO Anodes for Multiple‐Step Energy Storage of Li‐Ion Microbatteries

Lithium-ion microbatteries (LIMBs) face challenges in achieving high power density without compromising energy density, due to limitations in assembly and kinetics. By overcoming LIMB electrode fabricated using a laser-assisted method, which significantly improves assembly precision and enhances reaction kinetics, the first anodization of Cu(OH)2-CuO nanoneedle hybrids on Cu foil for a LIB anode is reported. By resolving the limitations of previous metal-hydroxide electrodes associated with conventional conversion reactions, the novel anode achieves an unprecedently-high initial capacity of 3065 mAh g-1 which clearly exceeds the theoretical limit. X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy, Transmission Electron Microscopy, and in-situ Raman analysis revealed the nanoscale Cu-particles and LiOH in high-voltage reactions, alongside CuxHy, Li2O, and LiH in low-voltage hydride reactions. AIMD simulations additionally revealed the underlying atomistic mechanism. An in-plane LIMB using a laser-assisted method is further engineered, featuring in prelithiated Cu(OH)2-CuO as the anode and LiNi0.8Mn0.1Co0.1O2 as the cathode. This LIMB operates between 2.0 and 4.5 V, delivering a reversible capacity of 6.61 mAh cm-2 at 20 µA cm-2 and retaining over 83% capacity after 500 cycles. This work advances overall understanding of lithium storage and offers key insights for the design of next-generation LIMBs.