High resolution morphology and electrical characterization of aged Li-ion battery cathode

Understanding the changes that take place in an aged Lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery cathode is vital to improving battery storage capabilities. High resolution imaging using an atomic force microscope (AFM) and current measurement capabilities are used to determine the difference in surface morphology as well as conductance between unaged and aged cathode. Upon aging, agglomeration of LiFePO(4) particles with nanocrystalline deposits is observed and the samples show lower conductance and hence increased resistance. The data identifies potential degradation mechanisms which reduce the conductivity of the cathode leading to poor cycling performance of the battery.