Applications for Battery Technology

The energy transition requires effective concepts for energy storage, as renewable energy sources such as solar and wind are not continuously available. Therefore, a reliable energy supply is not possible without suitable storage solutions. Lithium-ion batteries have established themselves as the best available battery solution due to their high energy density, long lifespan, low self-discharge, and fast charging capability.

Tailored metallographic preparation is essential for better understanding and further developing the materials and structures of these batteries. It provides detailed insights into the microstructure, material composition, and quality of the individual components and joints, contributing to the optimization of lithium-ion batteries.

Cutting of lithium-ion batteries

LIB cutting can vary depending on the desired outcome. Cut-off machines can be used for sectioning the battery casing to take the whole jelly roll out, or for cutting the whole battery with casing and electrodes, while a scalpel is suitable for sectioning only the electrode foils.

A rotating clamping tool is used to cut the casing and take the jelly roll out. QATM cut-off machines offer a wide range of clamping tools for sectioning entire batteries. The image below demonstrates an LIB cutting process.

Short facts

• Saving time by cutting the sample near to the target surface.
• Use of rotation device to clamp the samples.

Field of use

• Research & Quality Control

Grinding and polishing of lithium-ion batteries

Grinding and polishing can be done on different parts of LIBs. Sometimes the casing should be prepared and examined under light microscopy or SEM (also with EBSD detector), in other cases the electrodes or spot welds should be prepared. The cap of the LIB is in many cases low carbon steel with Ni-coating. The image shows the cap of an LIB after 1 μm polishing and etching with Klemm I. For powering certain devices, large battery packs consisting of multiple lithium-ion cells connected in parallel-series configurations are required. A robust and flawless spot weld is a critical concern for many industries, like aerospace. The other important parts of LIB are electrodes. The anode is often a copper foil coated on one or both sides with graphite, and the cathode is in many cases an aluminum foil coated on one or both sides with metal oxide particles (for example LiNiMnCoO2 particles).

Short facts

• Water-free polishing suspensions and lubricants
• High reproducibility because of automatic preparation

Field of use

• Research, Quality Control & Production