At the current stage of the “decarbonization” movement, Li-ion batteries energy storage systems have emerged as critical technologies for replacing combustion engines and fossil fuels. However, a significant bottleneck in their advancement lies in the limited understanding of atomistic mechanisms governing intricate reactions and microstructural evolution during operation. This knowledge gap is primarily due to the lack of probing methods capable of directly observing microscopic chemical, structural, and mechanical phenomena at near-atomic resolution in three dimensions.
Advanced microscopy techniques, particularly atom probe tomography (APT), have revolutionized the ability to study these mechanisms. APT offers high spatial resolution and three-dimensional compositional information with sensitivity to all elements, including light elements such as lithium[ 1]. Insights gained from cryogenic APT studies, such as those on high Ni cathodes and Si anodes, have been instrumental in optimizing these energy materials by revealing critical structure-property relationships.
In addition to understanding the fundamental mechanisms, impurity control has emerged as a central concern in energy materials[ 2]. Trace impurities, often introduced during fabrication or recycling, can significantly alter material behavior, either enhancing or degrading performance. The nanoscale distribution of these impurities often determines their effects, making precise characterization essential. Recycling processes, increasingly integral to a circular economy, further complicate this landscape by introducing higher impurity levels into material streams, demanding advanced techniques to maintain desired properties[ 3].
The application of APT and other advanced microscopy techniques is essential for navigating the complexities of modern energy materials. By providing unprecedented insights into the role of impurities and microstructural features, these tools address critical challenges and drive innovation in materials development for a sustainable future.
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