Published May 14, 2024 | Version v1
Journal article Open

The origins of critical deformations in cylindrical silicon based Li-ion batteries

  • 1. ROR icon Institut Laue-Langevin
  • 2. ROR icon European Synchrotron Radiation Facility
  • 3. ROR icon Université Grenoble Alpes
  • 4. VARTA Innovation GmbH (Austria)
  • 5. ROR icon Materials Center Leoben (Austria)
  • 6. ROR icon CEA Grenoble
  • 7. ROR icon Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique
  • 8. ROR icon Institut de Recherche Interdisciplinaire de Grenoble

Description

A manifold of degradation mechanisms causes premature capacity fade of Li-ion batteries. To understand their origin, we need a detailed diagnosis of battery (mal-)function over time. Here we employ correlative neutron and X-ray imaging to observe microstructural changes over time inside high energy density cylindrical cells and focus on unraveling the causes of localized defects where the silicon–graphite anode becomes damaged. We discover that these defects are due to local silicon enrichments occurring during electrode wet process manufacturing. We identify a threshold defect size beyond which internal cell structure and functioning is compromised, indicating the need for rigorous electrode-slurry quality control to avoid agglomerations above 50 microns. Our study elucidates defect genesis and their criticality, providing opportunities to better predict and mitigate unwanted aging and failure modes.

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Additional details

Funding

European Commission
ECO2LIB - Ecologically and Economically viable Production and Recycling of Lithium-Ion Batteries 875514
European Commission
InnovaXN - Doctoral programme for innovators with X-rays and neutrons 847439