Recent Advances in Electrode Interface Microstructure of Battery

Dear Colleagues,

Batteries are devices that store and deliver electrical energy for a wide variety of applications. Among different types of batteries, lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are currently the most promising technology; however, there are still many challenges and limitations that hinder the further improvement and widespread adoption of LIBs. These include safety issues, capacity fading, rate performance, and cost. To address these challenges, it is crucial to understand and optimize the structure and properties of battery components, especially the electrodes and the interfaces.

The microstructure of the electrodes determines the transport and reaction processes of lithium ions and electrons within the electrodes, as well as the mechanical stability and durability of the electrodes themselves. Therefore, close study of the electrode microstructure can unravel relationships between the structure and the electrochemical performance of LIBs, and provide guidance in terms of designing and fabricating enhanced electrodes exhibiting the desired characteristics.

The interfaces of LIBs are where different phases or components meet and interact with one another, such as solid–solid interfaces (i.e., active material–conductive additive, active material–binder, and electrode–current collector) and solid–liquid interfaces (i.e., electrode–electrolyte). The interfaces play a vital role in determining the kinetics of charge transfer, interfacial resistance, side reactions, interface stability, and the overall safety of LIBs. Therefore, studying the interfaces of LIBs can help us to understand and control the interfacial phenomena that dictate battery performance.

This Special Issue is dedicated to the latest innovations in battery technology. More specifically, it includes studies aiming to improve battery performance by investigating the microstructural, interfacial, and mechanical factors that control battery processes such as transport, reaction, degradation, and safety. It also includes studies reporting strategies designed to produce batteries with higher energy densities and capacities, longer cycle lives, and enhanced safety.

Prof. Dr. Ram S. Katiyar
Prof. Dr. Yutaka Moritomo
Guest Editors

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