Electronic Dipole-Driven Interfacial Stabilization for Corrosion-Resistant Magnesium Metal Batteries

Abstract

Magnesium (Mg) metal batteries are promising next-generation energy storage platforms, but practical deployment is hindered by the morphological instability and corrosion of the Mg metal anode during high-rate operation or extended rest. Here, we modulate the electronic work function (Φ) of Mg metal by controlling the electronic dipole in methoxy-amine solvents. Specifically, in situ incorporation of indium cations (In3+) into the electrolyte creates an interfacial dipole that elevates the Mg surface work function, mitigating parasitic corrosion inherent to methoxy-amine electrolytes. Simultaneously, the magnesiophilic In layer induces uniform hexagonal Mg growth and suppresses dendrite evolution. This electronic and chemical synergy achieves a Coulombic efficiency exceeding 98.5% at practical current densities, an eightfold longer reversibility, and extended calendar life across multiple solvents. In full cells with Mo6S8 cathodes, the system sustains over 1000 coin- and 300 pouch-cell cycles at 1C, demonstrating that interfacial electronic and nucleation control enables unprecedented lifetime stability for multivalent batteries.