Probing Battery Electrochemistry with In Operando Synchrotron X-Ray Imaging Techniques

In operando tracking of the complex phase transformation pathway in battery materials and correlating morphology change, chemical composition, and phase structure with electrochemical performance is critical in exploring advanced battery systems with high energy density and safety. Emerging synchrotron X-ray imaging techniques with high spatial, temporal, and chemical resolution provides unique tools to elucidate the underlying mechanisms in battery electrochemical reactions. Here, the recent significant progress in a number of rapidly growing synchrotron X-ray imaging techniques that have been applied in battery research under in operando conditions is summarized. The basic principle and in operando experimental setup of these X-ray imaging methods are briefly introduced. The unique capabilities of each X-ray technique and the critical achieved scientific insights in a variety of battery materials are discussed, with particular emphasis on how these in operando X-ray imaging techniques can advance fundamental understanding of the complex battery electrochemistry. Perspectives on the challenges and future trends in technology development for in operando X-ray imaging study are also briefly proposed.