Li-CO2 batteries (about 1876 Wh/kg) is much higher than that of lithium-ion batteries (about 265 Wh/kg). However, during the charging process, the decomposition of Li2CO3 requires a high potential, which leads to poor cycle stability of the battery and seriously hinders the development of Li-CO2 batteries. Regarding the reaction mechanism of Li-CO2 batteries, there are still some controversies, such as discharge products: some people believe that Li2CO3 and carbon are the main discharge products, while some people report that Li2CO3 and CO are the main products during discharge.

In order to clarify the working mechanism of Li-CO2 nano-batteries, researchers Zhang Liqiang, Professor Tang Yongfu and Professor Huang Jianyu of Yanshan University used in situ environmental transmission electron microscopy (in-situ ETEM) technology to study the discharge and charging reaction mechanism in Li-CO2 nano-batteries. The relevant research results are as follows: in-situ imaging the electrochemical reactions of Li-CO2 nanobatteries at high temperatures in an aberration corrected environmental transmission electron microscope was published in the journal Nano Research. Yanshan University students Jia Peng and Yu Meiqi co-author.

Original Link: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12274-021-3514-9

Figure Experimental Method

In-situ TEM Battery Test Platform is built using an in-situ MEMS-STM-TEM integrated sample rod PicoFemto by Zeryou Technology. Lithium anode and lithium carbonate electrolyte are mounted on one end of STM probe, and carbon tube cathode is mounted on the end of thermoelectric integrated MEMS chip. The three-dimensional manipulation probe can easily build the battery, while the MEMS chip can create a high temperature environment during the charging and discharging of the battery.

Figure in-situ battery building example

Figure Ze You Technology in-situ MEMS-STM-TEM integrated sample rod used in the experiment