Complex Growth Behavior of Li Dendrites in Al2O3 Nanoparticles‐Driven Viscoelastic Electrolytes for Lithium Metal Batteries: Dynamic versus Quasistatic Rheology

Abstract Viscoelastic electrolytes have been focused as innovative electrolytes for Li metal batteries because of their unique mechanical and electrochemical properties compared to conventional Newtonian liquid electrolytes. However, the role of the mechanochemical properties of viscoelastic electrolytes in the electrochemical performance of Li metal has not been fully understood yet. In particular, dynamic rheology of viscoelastic electrolytes has not been considered one of significant factors accelerating Li dendrites growth. Herein, Al2O3 nanoparticles‐driven viscoelastic electrolytes are introduced to improve the electrochemical performance of Li metal. In contrast to conventional Newtonian liquid electrolytes, viscoelastic electrolytes significantly suppress Li dendrites growth during cycling, resulting in excellent electrochemical performance, such as stable capacity retention over…