A bi-layer protective coating for a metal component, the bi-layer protective coating comprising a bond coating that is metallurgically fused to a substrate of the metal component, wherein the bond coating comprises one or more rare metals and a top coating that is mechanically bonded to the bond coating, wherein the top coating comprises one or more metal oxides, or one or more metal carbides.

A method of manufacturing a composite metal foil includes providing a first metal layer and forming a second metal layer on a surface of the first metal layer through electroplating. The first metal layer is copper foil, nickel foil, stainless steel foil, or a combination thereof. A contact angle of a surface of the second metal layer to liquid lithium metal is lower than 90 degrees.