In this work, metallic copper serving as a high-performance cathode in lithium-ion based carbonate electrolyte has been demonstrated. Computational modelling and in-situ ultraviolet-visible spectra confirm that Cu cathode experiences a two-electrons redox reaction: Cu ↔ Cu²⁺ + 2e^⁻ during charge/discharge process. By using one-dimensional (1D) nano-structure design and surface modification strategy, the Cu cathode delivers a reversible capacity of 635 mAh/g_Cu with a high output voltage of 3.61 V and affords a superior rate capability. With Li₄Ti₅O₁₂ as anode, a Cu/Li₄Ti₅O₁₂ full cell exhibits a discharge capacity of 601 mAh/g_Cu and an energy density of 1202 Wh/kg_Cu. The strategy of using metallic Cu as cathode in lithium-ion batteries is quite simple and broadly applicable, which may provide new opportunities for many other non-aqueous rechargeable batteries.

在这项工作中，已经证明了在锂离子基碳酸盐电解质中用作高性能阴极的金属铜。计算模型和原位紫外可见光谱证实，Cu阴极在充电/放电过程中经历了两个电子的氧化还原反应：^{Cu↔Cu 2+} + 2e⁻ 。通过使用一维（1D）纳米结构设计和表面改性策略，Cu阴极可提供635 mAh / g _Cu的可逆容量，并具有3.61 V的高输出电压，并具有出色的倍率能力。以Li ₄ Ti ₅ O ₁₂为阳极，Cu / Li ₄ Ti ₅ O ₁₂全电池的放电容量为601 mAh / g _Cu，能量密度为1202 Wh / kg _Cu。在锂离子电池中使用金属铜作为阴极的策略非常简单且广泛适用，这可能为许多其他非水可充电电池提供新的机会。