(Invited) Materials Development for Na-Ion Batteries and Insights from Operando Dilatometry and Gas Analysis (DEMS)

Abstract

In the development of sodium ion batteries (SIBs), some classes of materials are showing particular promise. At the same time, there is a need to further improve these materials and, for example, reduce aging processes. In this presentation, the properties of various inorganic electrode materials for SIBs will be discussed. The focus is on carbon materials and carbon/Sn composites (anodes) as well as layered oxides and layered sulfides (cathodes). Operando dilatometry and DEMS (gas analysis) will be used to understand the behavior of the electrodes. By means of dilatometry, information is obtained about the "breathing" of the electrode during ion insertion and removal. Buffer defects caused by nanostructuring or overpotential metal plating can also be detected. DEMS can be used to determine the stability of different electrolyte solutions (ether vs. carbonates) and the cut-off potentials.