In Situ Transmission Electron Microscopy for Studying Lithium-Ion Batteries

The ability to directly resolve the dynamic processes that occur at the electrode-electrolyte interface of an operating battery cell holds great potential for enhancing the development of new materials and chemistries for the lithium-ion battery. We introduce and explore the use of in situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM) techniques to diagnose the material challenges of the lithium-ion battery. The different experimental approaches for studying an operating electrode-electrolyte interface within the vacuum of the TEM are outlined, and their respective advantages and limitations are discussed. Some recent examples of in situ TEM of batteries are highlighted with the context of these different experimental approaches. Finally, we approach the challenges associated with accounting for the damaging effect of the ionizing electron beam and discuss the damage mechanisms that occur during in situ TEM imaging.