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Imaging in-operando LiCoO2 nanocrystallites with Bragg coherent X-ray diffraction
David Serban1,2, Daniel G Porter3, Ahmed H Mokhtar4
1Department of Physics & Astronomy, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK. das1g13@soton.ac.uk.
Communications Chemistry
|October 28, 2024
Summary
Researchers used X-ray diffraction imaging to study lithium cobalt oxide (LCO) in lithium ion batteries. They observed domain dynamics during cycling, revealing inefficiencies that limit battery performance and lifespan.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Electrochemistry
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Lithium cobalt oxide (LCO) is a key cathode material in commercial lithium ion batteries (LIB).
- Despite LCO's high stability, LIB performance improvements face challenges.
- Optimizing LCO battery cycling is crucial for advancing energy storage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the in-operando structural properties of LCO during battery cycling.
- To identify mechanisms contributing to inefficiencies in LCO batteries.
- To provide insights for optimizing LCO battery performance and longevity.
Main Methods:
- Utilized Bragg Coherent X-ray Diffraction Imaging for in-operando analysis.
- Studied a single LCO nanocrystal (approx. 1.6 × 1.4 × 1.3 μm³).
- Reconstructed X-ray scattering phase variations to map atomic displacements.
Main Results:
- Observed the formation, expansion, and fragmentation of strained domains on the LCO nanocrystal surface during charging.
- Determined maximum relative lattice displacements of 0.467 Å during charging.
- Observed reverse domain dynamics during discharging with lower maximum relative lattice displacements (0.226 Å).
Conclusions:
- The study reveals strain-induced domain dynamics within LCO lattices during charge/discharge cycles.
- These domain dynamics contribute to increasing inefficiencies in LCO batteries.
- Understanding these processes is key to developing strategies for enhanced LCO battery cycling and stability.
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