A Macro-to-nano Zoom through a Real-world Battery with X-ray Vision

Abstract: The lithium-ion battery (LIB) features structural and chemical complexities across a broad range of length scales. An in-depth understanding of the battery function, degradation, and failure mechanisms requires a thorough investigation from the structural, chemical, mechanical, and dynamic perspectives. In this talk, I present a macro-to-nano zoom through the hierarchy of a standard battery cell using a suite of state-of-the-art X-ray characterization techniques. Damage, deformation, and heterogeneity at different length scales are visualized and are associated to different degradation phenomena and mechanisms. Our results highlight the importance of the cathode material’s mechanical properties, which could significantly impact both immediate and long-term cell behaviors. Going beyond battery research, I will also briefly discuss the application of X-ray characterization tools for applications in the semiconductor industry and in electronic device packaging.