The team has been able to create a stand-alone thin-film version of lithium phosphorus oxynitride (LiPON), a solid-state electrolyte. 

The free-standing versions of LiPON (FS-LiPON) film underwent several functional battery tests that showed it was able to promote a uniformly dense lithium metal electrochemical deposition under zero external pressure. 

Lithium metal batteries have been a topic of interest for many years due to their high energy density. However, their practical application has been limited due to safety concerns and lithium’s tendency to form dendrites, which can cause short circuits and reduce the battery’s lifespan.

LiPON has been described as “potentially game-changing” as it could allow for the development of a new type of lithium metal battery that functions with minimal external pressure, reducing the risk of dendrite formation and improving performance.

LiPON was originally developed by a group of scientists at Oak Ridge National...