posted on 2021-02-09, 21:03authored byNatalie Seitzman, Olivia F. Bird, Rory Andrykowski, Steve Robbins, Mowafak M. Al-Jassim, Svitlana Pylypenko
Solid-state Li-ion conductors are
a next-generation battery technology
that are particularly promising for electric vehicles, offering the
capacitive benefits of Li metal anodes with nonflammable electrolytes.
Microstructural evolution in these solid-state batteries, especially
the Li anode, requires deeper understanding of the conditions under
which certain undesired behaviors are more likely to occur. This study
utilizes operando X-ray computed tomography to visualize
the behavior of lithium in response to device operation, considering
variables that are relevant to a realistic battery: stack pressure,
microscale defects such as pores, and temperature. This work demonstrates
that experimental and operational conditions, especially temperature,
affect the fundamental driving forces of realistic solid electrolyte
systems and provides visual insight into possible mechanisms of Li
migration. In particular, the effect of these variables on Li propagation
from the anode through pre-existing defects and Li nucleation within
the imperfectly electron-insulating electrolyte is highlighted.