Research progress of focused ion beam microscopy in lithium-ion batteries

doi:10.19799/j.cnki.2095-4239.2022.0740

Abstract

Abstract:

Electrode materials are the key structural components of lithium-ion batteries, and their structural stability directly determines the electrochemical performance of lithium-ion batteries. Nevertheless, it is challenging to characterize their microstructure and structure since the electrode materials are sensitive to air and moisture, not resistant to electron beam irradiation, and the electrode itself and its chemical environment are constantly changing during the charging and discharging process. Focused ion beam-scanning electron microscope is an important means of preparing transmission samples and has been widely used in semiconductor, biology, and other fields. Based on the discussion of related literature in recent years, this paper summarizes the solutions of focused ion beams in the field of lithium-ion batteries, focusing on the latest progress of focused ion beams in three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction, freezing processing, the construction of single-particle batteries. 3D reconstruction technology can obtain 3D characteristic information on pore networks, multi-phase structure, and volume change in electrode materials; perform a quantitative evaluation; and establish a microstructure model to predict battery performance. Based on cryogenic processing technology, the liquid electrolyte, Li metal, and other beam-sensitive materials are frozen to maintain their original morphology and chemical properties, which can effectively characterize the intrinsic information of the Li metal anode and solid-liquid interface. The construction of a single-particle microbattery can realize the in situ observation of microstructure evolution during a single-particle cycle; avoid the influence of binders, conductive additives, etc. on the intrinsic properties of the material; and determine the intrinsic characteristics of the electrode material. Thus, this paper introduces the processing process of focused ion beam, analyzes the shortcomings in the processing process, and presents the associated challenges. The findings of this article provides insights for researchers based on the characteristics of lithium-ion battery materials and focused ion beam experimental methods.

Key words: lithium-ion battery, focused ion beam-scanning electron microscope, 3D reconstruction, cryogenic processing

CLC Number:

TM 912.9

Ni YANG, Yuefeng SU, Lian WANG, Ning LI, Liang MA, Chen ZHU. Research progress of focused ion beam microscopy in lithium-ion batteries[J]. Energy Storage Science and Technology, 2023, 12(4): 1283-1294.

Figures/Tables 7

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