Nanoscale Imaging of Fundamental Li Battery Chemistry: Solid-Electrolyte Interphase Formation and Preferential Growth of Lithium Metal Nanoclusters

The performance charactetistics of Li-ion batteries are intrinsically linked to evolving nanoscale interfacial electrochemical reactions. To probe the mechanisms of solid electrolyte interphase (SET) formation and to track nucleation and growth mechanisms, from a standard organic. battery electrolyte (LiPF6, in EC:DMC), we used situ, electrochemical scanning transmission electron microscopy (et-S/TEM) to perform controlled electrochemical potential sweep measurements while simultaneously imaging site-specific structures resulting, from eletrochemical reactions. A combined quantitative electrochemical measurement and STEM imaging approach is used to demonstrate that chemically sensitive annular dark field STEM imaging can be used to estimate the density of the evolving SET and to identify Li-containing phases formed in the liquid cell. We report that the SEI is approximately twice as dense as the electrolyte as determined from imaging and electron scattering theory. We also observe site-specific locations where Li nucleates and grows on the surface and edge of the glassy carbon electrode. Lastly, this report demonstrates the investigative power of quantitative nanoscale imaging combined with electrochemical measurements for studying fluid-solid interfaces and their evolving chemistries.