Electrochemical behaviors of a Li3N modified Li metal electrode in secondary lithium batteries

► A Li3N film with a thickness of more than 159.4 nm is obtained by the direct reaction between Li and N2 at room temperature. ► The Li3N protective film decreases the Li/electrolyte interface resistance and shortens the diffusion distance for Li ion from electrolyte to Li surface, Moreover, it enhances the Li cycling efficiency effectively. ► A dense and homogeneous Li layer deposits on the Li3N modified Li surface after cycling.