Analytical Solutions for Lithium-Ion Batteries

Significance of the Topic

Lithium-ion batteries are essential for achieving a carbon-free society, enabling electrified mobility and grid energy storage. Comprehensive analytical methods ensure consistent quality, safety, and environmental sustainability across all stages of the battery lifecycle.

Study Objectives and Overview

This work outlines Shimadzu’s integrated analytical solutions for lithium-ion batteries, covering material research, product quality control, degradation analysis, and recycled material assessment.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The analytical framework addresses key stages:

• Raw Materials: evaluation of active materials, binders, separators, and electrolytes
• Electrode Manufacturing: mixing, coating, calendering, and slitting processes
• Cell Assembly: stacking, tab welding, sealing, and module assembly
• Recycling: characterization of black mass, impurity and residue analysis, and disassembly optimization

Used Instrumentation

Shimadzu’s instrumentation portfolio includes:

• Particle and Surface Analysis: SALD-2300, iSpect DIA-10, EPMA-8050G, SPM-Nanoa
• Chemical Composition: ICPE-9820 ICP emission, EDX-7200 XRF, AXIS Supra+ XPS
• Spectroscopy and Chromatography: AIRsight FTIR/Raman, IRSpirit-X, GCMS-QP2050, Nexis GC-2030, LCMS-2050, HIC-ESP
• Structural and Thermal Analysis: inspeXio SMX-225CT X-ray CT, Autograph AGX-V2 mechanical tester, MCT micro-compression, DTG-60 TGA/DTG

Main Results and Discussion

The integrated approach enables optimization of material properties—particle size, morphology, surface chemistry, thermal stability, and mechanical strength. Case studies demonstrate precise impurity quantification, in situ thermal behavior, microstructural integrity assessment, and organic decomposition detection.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Improved battery performance through controlled electrode formulation and process monitoring
• Enhanced quality assurance in manufacturing and assembly operations
• Reliable safety evaluations via non-destructive testing (X-ray CT, leak detection)
• Support for sustainable recycling through detailed characterization of recycled materials

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Emerging all-solid-state batteries will demand advanced micro-area and interfacial analyses. Integration of AI-driven data analytics can enable real-time process monitoring and predictive maintenance. Inline inspection technologies will support high-throughput manufacturing and recycling processes.

Conclusion

Shimadzu’s comprehensive analytical workflows and versatile instrumentation address critical challenges in lithium-ion battery development, manufacturing, and recycling, supporting performance, safety, and sustainability in electrification and clean energy initiatives.

References

No specific references provided.