Impacts of Uneven Conductive Network on Cathode Degradation

Uneven conductive networks for ion and electron transport are common in composite battery cathodes, a challenge that is particularly pronounced in solid-state batteries (SSBs). Understanding the impact of these uneven networks on cathode performance and developing strategies to mitigate associated damage is crucial for advancing SSB technology. Our preliminary results, based on Scanning Transmission X-ray Microscopy (STXM) and Transmission X-ray Microscopy (TXM), have revealed charge heterogeneity and polarization in both primary and secondary particles, respectively. This heterogeneity builds up stress in the NMC particles and the electrode, potentially causing detachment and cracking. Here, we propose using hard X-ray phase contrast nano-tomography, combined with machine learning, to investigate cathode degradation at the electrode scale. These systematic studies will enable us to comprehensively understand the relationship between uneven conductive networks and cathode degradation.