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A Direct Real-Time Observation of Anion Intercalation in Graphite Process and Its Fully Reversibility by SAXS/WAXS
Giorgia Greco1,2, Giuseppe Antonio Elia3, Daniel Hermida-Merino4
1Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie GmbH, Hahn-Meitner-Platz 1, D-14109, Berlin, Germany.
Small Methods
|March 9, 2023
Summary
Anion intercalation in graphite is key for energy storage. This study reveals the complete reversibility of aluminum-graphite dual-ion cells, detailing structural changes during intercalation and phase transitions.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Electrochemistry
- Energy Storage
Background:
- Anion intercalation in graphite is vital for advanced energy storage devices.
- Understanding the reversibility of this process is critical for next-generation batteries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the reaction mechanism of aluminum-graphite dual-ion cells.
- To observe the staging behavior, phase transitions, and reversibility of graphite intercalation compound (GIC) formation.
Main Methods:
- Operando X-ray scattering (small to wide angles) was employed.
- Direct measurement of repeated intercalation distance and cathode graphite microporosity.
Main Results:
- Complete reversibility of the electrochemical intercalation process was demonstrated.
- Observed nano- and micro-structural reorganization of natural graphite.
- First direct observation of GIC formation, phase transitions, and reversible processes.
Conclusions:
- The study provides new insights into the thermodynamic aspects of intermediate phase transitions during GIC formation.
- Confirms the complete reversibility of anion intercalation in graphite for dual-ion cells.
- Highlights the structural reorganization of graphite during electrochemical cycling.
