Laboratory-Based Submicron 3D X-Ray Imaging to Study Battery Microstructure Evolution under Thermal Runaway Conditions
Abstract
Rechargeable batteries store energy through reversible electrochemical reactions, but extreme conditions can cause them to undergo violent exothermic reactions with gas generation, known as thermal runaway. While preventing thermal runaway is critical for safe battery operation under normal circumstances, it could also be intentionally harnessed to generate propulsion thrust in a controlled manner, potentially leading to a battery-propellant hybrid system. In either case, understanding the structural evolution inside battery cells caused by thermal runaway is essential. This proposal requests funding for a 3D X-ray tomography microscope to perform fast, nondestructive and in-situ characterization of the internal structure of alkali metal-based rechargeable batteries at submicron resolution during and after thermal runaway. This instrument complements other destructive characterization methods and synchrotron X-ray imaging, which is significantly constrained by the beamtime availability. Its arrival at Rice University will enable high-throughput investigation of the mixing behavior of molten alkali metal anode (lithium and sodium) and electrolyte and its percolation through the separator and porous cathode. The technique will also shed light on the morphological stability of metallic anode and cathode during battery cycling. Such studies will contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the in-situ propellant preparation and thermal runaway mechanism in alkali metal batteries. Additionally, the instrument will have broad impact on research projects at Rice University including topics of significant interest to DOD. Students and postdocs operating the instrument will gain valuable training in computed tomography for applications across multiple disciplines.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Mar 14, 2024
- Source ID
- FA95502310703
Entities
People
- Ming Tang
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- Rice University
- United States Air Force