NREL researchers have utilized state-of-the-art X-ray diagnostic capabilities as a non-destructive method to examine the composition and structure of battery materials.

X-ray diagnostic technology provides a way to examine the properties of lithium-ion battery materials. Because they are non-destructive, X-ray can detect changes occurring in real time without causing significant interference to the system.

NREL has a suite of advanced X-ray diagnostic capabilities, including X-ray computed tomography, X-ray diffraction(XRD) , X-ray fluorescence and X-ray spectroscopy systems.

The NREL researchers used synchrotron radiation XRD and XRD-CT to quantify the lithium and degradation gradiants across the entire electrode depth during rapid charging, as well as the degradation of individual electrode particles. New insights have been gained into the extent of chemical heterogeneity of battery electrodes over their lifetimes and how this heterogeneity adversely affects battery performance.

NREL researchers used high-speed synchrotron X-ray radiography to understand the failure mechanisms of lithium-ion batteries under a range of mechanical to thermal abuse situations. NREL has compiled an open source battery failure database that provides insight to researchers and engineers around the world.