Fast kinetics of graphite anodes through interface and bulk engineering: a review

• • Li3PO4-enriched SEI on graphite anodes boosts Li+ de-solvation, enabling fast-charging (up to 4C) and low-temperature operation (down to −20 °C) with reversible capacities >300 mAh/g, directly addressing the sluggish kinetics bottleneck for EV batteries. • • Amorphous Al2O3 coatings (thickness 2–5 nm) on graphite improve fast charging capability by reducing charge-transfer resistance by ~40% compared to uncoated graphite, as evidenced by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) showing Rct < 20 Ω·cm². • • Black TiO2−x surface engineering yields a 15% increase in specific capacity at 5C (from 200 to 230 mAh/g) and maintains 95% capacity retention after 500 cycles, offering a viable route for high-power lithium-ion batteries. • • Pitch crystallinity in carbon coatings directly influences electrochemical performance: higher crystallinity (ID/IG ratio < 0.8) results in lower irreversible capacity loss (first-cycle efficiency >92%) and improved rate capability (capacity retention of 85% at 10C).