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Updated: Jul 11, 2026

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Characterization of Electrode Materials for Lithium Ion and Sodium Ion Batteries Using Synchrotron Radiation Techniques
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Advanced Characterization of Solid-State Battery Materials Using Neutron Scattering Techniques
Eric Novak1,2, Luke Daemen2, Niina Jalarvo2
1Department of Physics and Astronomy, Swarthmore College, 500 College Ave, Swarthmore, PA 19081, USA.
Materials (Basel, Switzerland)
|January 8, 2025
Summary
Neutron scattering is a powerful, non-destructive technique for characterizing advanced battery materials. This review highlights in situ/in operando neutron methods for understanding atomic-scale processes impacting battery performance.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Electrochemistry
Background:
- Advanced batteries necessitate sophisticated characterization methods.
- Neutron scattering is a premier technique for probing next-generation battery materials.
- It offers non-destructive, in situ/in operando analysis with high sensitivity to key elements like lithium.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of neutron scattering techniques for solid-state battery research.
- To illustrate the application of these methods for studying battery materials.
- To address critical questions in battery materials research using neutron scattering's unique capabilities.
Main Methods:
- Overview of selected neutron scattering techniques.
- Focus on in situ/in operando measurements.
- Application across multiple length and time scales.
Main Results:
- Neutron scattering provides atomic-scale insights into structural and dynamical properties.
- Enables understanding of complex processes during battery operation.
- Connects atomic-scale phenomena to macroscale battery performance.
Conclusions:
- Neutron scattering is invaluable for advancing solid-state battery research.
- In situ/in operando methods reveal fundamental atomic-scale mechanisms.
- This review offers practical examples for the research community.

