The contribution of atomic force microscopy techniques to the observation of microstructure of lithium-ion battery electrodes obtained by dry process
The “THE FORCE” project aims to leverage Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) techniques to observe the microstructure of lithium-ion battery electrodes produced by dry processing.
Currently, the production of lithium-ion battery electrodes uses toxic solvents, which require energy-intensive drying and increase the carbon footprint. To make this process more environmentally friendly, researchers are exploring a dry manufacturing method through extrusion. This technique enables the production of complex films or filaments without solvents. However, the electrochemical performance of the electrodes varies based on numerous parameters, such as temperature and the materials used.
To optimize these parameters, it is crucial to visualize and analyze the microstructure of the electrodes. This is where Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) comes into play. AFM, a local non-destructive characterization technique, allows the study of material properties at the nanoscale level. It helps understand the viscoelastic properties of polymers and the distribution of active materials within the electrodes. Additionally, AFM can detect electronic conduction pathways and evaluate the adhesion between different particles and the polymer.
This project brings together the expertise of teams from Amiens and Lens in electrode fabrication and nano-characterization using AFM to develop more efficient and environmentally friendly electrodes.
