The Basic Understanding of Lithium Superoxide in Li-O$_{\mathrm{2}}$ Battery

The electrochemical and chemical processes that involved in Li-O$_{\mathrm{2}}$ battery are complex, and depend heavily on electrode materials, electrolytes, interfaces, and cell operating conditions. In non-aqueous Li-O$_{\mathrm{2}}$ battery, the main discharge products are commonly known to be lithium peroxide (Li$_{\mathrm{2}}$O$_{\mathrm{2}})$, and possibly some other parasitic components (i.e. Li$_{\mathrm{2}}$CO$_{\mathrm{3}}$, LiOH, Li$_{\mathrm{2}}$O). However, the superoxide intermediates and lithium superoxide (O$_{\mathrm{2}}^{\mathrm{-}}$, LiO$_{\mathrm{2}})$ which are commonly known to be metastable can also be found as reported [1, 2]. Relative to these compounds (i.e. Li$_{\mathrm{2}}$CO$_{\mathrm{3}}$, Li$_{\mathrm{2}}$O, LiOH, Li$_{\mathrm{2}}$O$_{\mathrm{2}})$ in discharge products, little is known about LiO$_{\mathrm{2}}$. To have a basic understanding of lithium superoxide, both theoretical studies and experimental characterizations are important. In this presentation, the recent developments, studies and findings of this exotic species will be discussed. References: 1. D. Zhai$^{\mathrm{+}}$, K.C. Lau$^{\mathrm{+}}$, H. Wang, J. Wen, D. Miller, J. Lu, F. Kang, B. Li, W. Yang, J. Gao, E. Indacochea, L.A. Curtiss, K.A. Amine, Nano Lett. 15 (2), 1041-1046 (2015). 2. J. Lu$^{\mathrm{+}}$, Y.J. Lee$^{\mathrm{+}}$, X. Luo$^{\mathrm{+}}$, K.C. Lau$^{\mathrm{+}}$, M. Asadi$^{\mathrm{+}}$, et. al. Nature (accepted).