Targeted research on the single role of lithium Bis(oxalate)borate in the film-forming process through a novel lithium salt-free electrolyte system

A blank comparison group of lithium salt-free electrolyte system, replacing the lithium salt of electrolyte with a redox shuttle agent, is constructed to give targeted research on the single role of lithium bis(oxalate)borate (LiBOB) salt, especially of bis(oxalate)borate anions (BOB−) in the film-forming process. By combining and comparing all available studies, such as attenuated total reflectance (IR-ATR), X-Ray photoelectron diffraction spectrum (XPS), electrochemical impedance spectrum (EIS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) tests and quantum chemical calculation, the formation mechanism of the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) film is proposed. Results reveal that the prior reduction of BOB− anions can postpone the reduction potential and hinder the decomposition rate of carbonate solvents, but promote the formation of a dense, conductive and effective SEI film. This work provides a novel way to investigate the film-forming mechanism and has guiding significance for revealing the effect of other kinds of lithium salts on the surface film formation.