In-Situ and in-Operando Li-Ion Batteries for Materials Science Education

Abstract

Electrochemical energy storage systems, particularly Li-ion rechargeable batteries (LiRB), have a key role to play in fortifying US energy generation, decarbonizing the electricity sector, and limiting anthropogenic climate change. LiRBs suffer from limited lifetimes, insufficient energy densities, and fire risks, which are all materials science and engineering challenges stemming from various irreversible degradation processes occurring at nano and micro-scales. These batteries function via the reversible diffusion of Li ions from a Li-rich cathode to a Li-poor anode, each of which undergo various levels of volumetric phase changes, plastic deformation, and microcracking with each charging cycle, thereby compromising subsequent battery performance. Therefore, it is imperative to understand the nano-mechanical processes associated with LiRB degradation and predict transformative material designs that can lead to manufacturing cheaper, denser, and safer LiRBs. Such understanding and design would be instrumental to achieving the US 2050 Net Zero Goal. Additionally, the US lags 10x behind China in terms of Li battery manufacturing capability, and thus a LiRB-aware Research and Development workforce is paramount for continued US energy security. In this context, we propose a new design for in-situ and in-operando Li-ion battery research and education. This battery design will be used in a classroom/lab setting to discuss fundamental materials science concepts such as diffusion, grain-boundaries, and fracture. This activity will be used to broaden "missing millions" student participation in a crucial area of energy research at a minority serving institution.