Lithium metal batteries (LMBs) are a dazzling star in electrochemical energy storage thanks to their high energy density and low redox potential. However, LMBs have a deadly lithium dendrite problem. Among the various methods for inhibiting lithium dendrites, gel polymer electrolytes (GPEs) possess the advantages of good interfacial compatibility, similar ionic conductivity to liquid electrolytes, and better interfacial tension. In recent years, there have been many reviews of GPEs, but few papers discussed the relationship between GPEs and solid electrolyte interfaces (SEIs). In this review, the mechanisms and advantages of GPEs in inhibiting lithium dendrites are first reviewed. Then, the relationship between GPEs and SEIs is examined. In addition, the effects of GPE preparation methods, plasticizer selections, polymer substrates, and additives on the SEI layer are summarized. Finally, the challenges of using GPEs and SEIs in dendrite suppression are listed and a perspective on GPEs and SEIs is considered.
Keywords: gel polymer electrolyte; lithium dendrite; lithium metal battery; solid electrolyte interface.