Abstract: The present invention relates to metal coatings and methods thereof. In certain embodiments, the invention relates to ultra-low wear noble metal alloys, such as for use in electrical contact coatings.

Abstract: The contact pressure on the surface of the electrodes in lithium metal anodes can be used to control the electrodeposited lithium morphology and suppress lithium short circuiting in lithium ion batteries. For example, the contact pressure on the electrode surfaces can be controlled using a load frame in a pouch cell configuration, which allows constant force to be applied over a variety of contact pressures from 0-1 MPa. In a coin cell configuration, compression can be controlled using a wave spring, Belleville washer, or one or more pieces of metal foam. Higher pressures produce larger lithium grains and suppress dendrite formation. Although high contact pressure suppresses observable lithium dendrites, short circuiting can occur at the high contact pressures. Therefore, there is an optimal contact pressure for controlled electrodeposited lithium morphology.