Review—SEI: Past, Present and Future

TLDR

The SEI model revolutionized lithium‑battery science by replacing the Butler‑Volmer assumption, enabling safer, more durable, higher‑power, and lower‑cost batteries and becoming a cornerstone of the field. This paper reviews the past, present, and future of SEI batteries. It discusses new equations for electrode kinetics, anode corrosion, SEI resistivity and growth, and irreversible capacity loss. The SEI model demonstrates that direct electron transfer to the electrolyte is incorrect, and preventing it avoids fast self‑discharge and improves performance. Key references are Peled’s 1979 and 1983 publications on lithium batteries.

Abstract

The Solid-Electrolyte-Interphase (SEI) model for non-aqueous alkali-metal batteries constitutes a paradigm change in the understanding of lithium batteries and has thus enabled the development of safer, durable, higher-power and lower-cost lithium batteries for portable and EV applications. Prior to the publication of the SEI model (1979), researchers used the Butler-Volmer equation, in which a direct electron transfer from the electrode to lithium cations in the solution is assumed. The SEI model proved that this is a mistaken concept and that, in practice, the transfer of electrons from the electrode to the solution in a lithium battery, must be prevented, since it will result in fast self-discharge of the active materials and poor battery performance. This model provides [E. Peled, in "Lithium Batteries," J.P. Gabano (ed), Academic Press, (1983), E. Peled, J. Electrochem. Soc., 126, 2047 (1979).] new equations for: electrode kinetics (io and b), anode corrosion, SEI resistivity and growth rate and irreversible capacity loss of lithium-ion batteries. This model became a cornerstone in the science and technology of lithium batteries. This paper reviews the past, present and the future of SEI batteries.