Operando Raman spectroscopy for investigating lithium deposition/dissolution and diffusion at the microelectrode...

Area of Science:

• Electrochemistry
• Materials Science
• Spectroscopy

Background:

• Understanding lithium deposition and diffusion is critical for lithium-ion battery performance and safety.
• Microelectrode interfaces present unique challenges for in-situ analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and apply an operando Raman spectroscopy method for visualizing lithium deposition and diffusion at the microelectrode interface.
• To investigate the behavior of electrolyte components during lithium deposition and dissolution.

Main Methods:

• Developed an operando Raman spectroscopy technique.
• Utilized microelectrode setups for in-situ measurements.
• Analyzed spectral changes associated with lithium deposition and dissolution.

Main Results:

• Visualized lithium deposition and diffusion processes at the microelectrode interface.
• Observed the release of free ethylene carbonate (EC) and fluoroethylene carbonate (FSC) during lithium deposition.
• Detected rapid lithium-ion (Li+) coordination changes during dissolution.
• Validated diffusion layer thickness estimations against theoretical predictions.

Conclusions:

• Operando Raman spectroscopy is a powerful tool for studying lithium-ion battery interfaces.
• The method provides insights into electrolyte-electrode interactions during cycling.
• This technique can advance the understanding of battery degradation and performance limitations.