Surface and Interface Analysis of LiCoO2 and LiPON Thin Films by Photoemission: Implications for Li-Ion Batteries

Thin film technology is applied in different fields of Li-ion battery research and development, such as the fabrication of thin film cells and model electrodes. Data obtained by surface and interface analysis of thin films provides important insights into fundamental processes such as charge compensation mechanism or interface formation. In this overview, we present the analysis of LiCoO2 and LiPON thin films using photoemission. It includes data obtained directly after preparation, after exposure to molecular species and/or after electrode-electrolyte interface formation. Information both on electronic structure and surface chemistry of the films is deduced from core level spectra, valence band spectra, Fermi level position and work function. Next to PES analysis of our films, we address composition, structure and functionality in more general terms in relation to literature.