Simply Fabricatable Reference Electrode for Studying Li Metal Interfaces Operando

Abstract

Reference electrodes are essential for studying Li metal interfaces, yet their integration into coin cells remains challenging due to geometric constraints and assembly complexity. Here, we present a simple three-electrode coin cell design in which a thin Cu film is evaporated directly onto a trilayer PP/PE/PP separator, forming a conductive and flexible in situ current collector. The microporous Cu preserves separator porosity and pressure uniformity, avoiding artifacts introduced by wire- or mesh-type references. It is easily activated by Li plating and provides stable potentials for over 10 days in ether-based electrolytes without affecting Coulombic efficiency (>99%) or Li deposition morphology. Operando measurements using this design reveal electrode-specific impedance evolution and voltage responses otherwise obscured in two-electrode setups, uncovering a correlation between the SEI resistance and electrolyte ionic conductivity. This microporous Cu reference electrode offers a robust and accessible platform for characterizing reactive interfaces under realistic cycling conditions.