Abstract Scope |
Advances in microscopy allow us to image and understand battery materials, their physical properties, structural and chemical changes during charging and discharging, degradation and interlayer interactions. Non-destructive 3D X-ray microscopy allows researchers to avoid opening of battery packages to identify failure points and modes. Deep learning reconstruction and resolution enhancement of computed nanotomography data enables rapid throughput inspection at high resolution, building a picture of the grains, interfaces, particles, and pores in battery components, as well as black mass in recycling. Rapid clean in situ laser ablation in focused ion beam scanning electron microscopy can access deeply buried features in battery materials, where electron imaging, characterizing cathode particles (including cracks), binder, anode particles, and current collectors. Imaging battery materials can be extremely challenging in the SEM. We present low kV techniques, detector technologies and sweet spot methodology that enhance characterization of material with minimal sample damage. |