Operando BCDI of Fast-Charging Niobium Tungsten Oxide Anodes for Lithium-Ion Batteries

BCDI will allow us to obtain high-resolution 3D reconstructions of individual crystals of industrially relevant, state-of-the-art fast-charging electrode materials during operation. Performing these experiments operando will give data about the evolution of strain during cycling, directly relating them to the electrode’s electrochemical performance and degradation mechanisms. Building on previous work [1], this experiment would allow us to collect ¬in-situ data on a promising new anode material. Niobium-oxide-based materials are emerging as promising anode materials for lithium-ion batteries, offering fast-charging capabilities, high structural stability, and enhanced cycle life, making promising candidates for next-generation EV batteries. Certain phases of these materials are prone to cracking due to their specific defect chemistries and characteristics. This proposal will use BCDI to probe the origins of strain that can lead to cracking in these high-rate phases