In-situ X-ray tomography study of Li-ion batteries integrating high-capacity Si-based anodes

Silicon is a very promising anode material for increasing the energy density of Li-ion batteries (LiBs). However, the integration of Si anodes in commercial LiBs is very challenging due to the huge volume change of Si upon lithiation, affecting its cyclability. In a full cell, the volume variation of the Si anode is affected by the other components of the LiB (separator, cathode and casing), but to date, their impacts on the Si anode swelling and the resulting LiB cyclability are not well known. In this context, the goal of the proposal is to visualize and quantify the volume change of the Si-based anode by means of in situ X-ray tomography performed in a full cell configuration. The influence of the pristine cell pressure and anode porosity, which are essential parameters for commercial LiB manufacturing, will be studied. New strategies for a better visualization of the SEI and anode binder will be also evaluated. This study will give key information to conceive high performance LiBs.