In this fascinating episode, Dr. McConohy dives deep into the intricacies of solid electrolytes in rechargeable lithium-metal batteries, and how they are susceptible to short-circuiting during plating. He presents a comprehensive investigation into the effect of both locally and globally applied stress on lithium penetration initiation in LLZO (Li6.6La3Ta0.4Zr1.6O12), using the method of operando microprobe scanning electron microscopy. Dr. McConohy's detailed statistical analysis demonstrates that lithium intrusion follows a Weibull distribution, and intriguingly, he unveils how an increased microprobe-LLZO contact force can significantly reduce the characteristic failure diameter of lithium metal. Further, he talks about how the direction of intrusion propagation can be manipulated using a 0.070% compressive strain via operando cantilever beam-bending experiments. Tune in to understand the complex interplay of current focusing, nanoscale cracks, and their role in lithium intrusion into the electrolyte, providing valuable insights into the mechanical tunability of electrochemical plating reactions in brittle solid electrolytes.

Lithium-metal batteries, Solid electrolytes, Lithium penetration, Stress, LLZO, Operando microprobe scanning electron microscopy, Weibull distribution, Intrusion propagation, Nanoscale cracks, Mechanical tunability, Electrochemical plating reactions.

McConohy, G., Xu, X., Cui, T. et al. Mechanical regulation of lithium intrusion probability in garnet solid electrolytes. Nat Energy (2023). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41560-022-01186-4