Abstract: The present invention provides a method of modifying a surface of a lithium electrode, e.g. a negative lithium electrode, for a battery cell. The method comprises the step of applying a thin layer of a carbonaceous material onto the surface of the lithium electrode. The method further comprises the step of applying a pressure to the thin layer and to the surface to promote tight contact between the surface and the thin layer. The method further comprises the step of storing the thin layer and the lithium electrode in an atmosphere comprising carbon dioxide (CO2) gas for a period of time sufficient to significantly lithiate carbon of the carbonaceous material into an intercalation compound having the formula LixC6. A battery cell, e.g. a secondary (rechargeable) battery cell, comprises the lithium electrode made by the method of the present invention.

Abstract: An electrode, e.g. a negative electrode, for a lithium-ion battery cell is made from a carbonaceous material, such as a carbon paper, which is lithiated by direct contact with a piece of lithium metal in an atmosphere comprising carbon dioxide (CO2) gas. A method of making the electrode comprises the step of contacting tightly the carbonaceous material with the piece of lithium metal in the atmosphere. The method further comprises the step of storing the carbonaceous material and the piece of lithium metal in the atmosphere, and optionally, in an electrolyte, for a period of time sufficient to completely lithiate the carbonaceous material. A lithium-ion battery cell comprises the negative electrode, a positive electrode comprising oxides of a transition metal, and a non-aqueous electrolyte.