Abstract
All-solid-state lithium ion batteries (ASSBs) have the potential to become the next generation of energy storage devices because of their better safety and higher energy density, compared to conventional liquid electrolyte lithium ion batteries. Currently, the performance of ASSBs is limited by interfacial resistance at the electrode/electrolyte interfaces, due to the formation of solidelectrolyte interphases (SEIs). Whereas most SEIs are unwanted, artificial SEIs i.e. thin coatings between the electrode and the solid electrolyte, are also investigated to, oppositely, protect against the degradation of the electrode/electrolyte interface and to reduce the interfacial resistance.
In this project, I will determine the crystal structure of the SEIs between LiPON and several commercially relevant cathode materials at different stages during cycling. I will do this, to my knowledge for the first time, by using electron diffraction techniques while charging and discharging a thin-film ASSB in a cell filled with inert argon gas inside a transmission electron microscope. This will prevent that the results are influenced by relaxation, electron beam damage, gas evaporation, or reactions due to air exposure. I will also study the application of artificial SEIs at the LiPON/cathode interfaces. The experimental findings will be compared with recent theoretical models that try to explain SEI formation. Measures to increase battery performance will be proposed.
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