Electrolyte Li ⁺ Chemical Potential Correlates with Graphite Negative Electrode Reactions in Lithium‐Ion Batteries

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Novel electrolytes for advanced lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) with higher energy density and safety are being extensively explored. A major challenge in developing new electrolytes is achieving reversible Li + intercalation into graphite negative electrodes. In commercial LIBs, this reaction is reversible in ethylene carbonate (EC) electrolytes, whereas unfavorable Li + –solvent cointercalation occurs in many other electrolytes. Recently, EC‐free Li + intercalation has been achieved in some types of advanced electrolytes, including (localized) highly concentrated electrolytes and weakly coordinating electrolytes. However, an essential factor that dominates whether Li + intercalation or Li + –solvent cointercalation occurs has yet to be identified. Herein, the electrolyte Li + chemical potential is reported as a quantitative descriptor of the Li + intercalation behavior. Solvent cointercalation is generally inhibited above a certain threshold of the electrolyte Li + chemical potential. This work provides a novel guideline for designing advanced LIB electrolytes.