Complex Cathode Tape Inspection

Solid State Batteries (SSBs) have emerged as a promising successor to Li ion batteries due to their higher energy density, longer lifespan, and enhanced safety. In particular, a cathode tape composed of Lithium Nickel Manganese Cobalt Oxide (NMC) particles was opened after 200 cycles in a glovebox, cross-sectioned ex-situ, and measured using AFM-in-SEM.


With AFM-in-SEM LiteScope, we measured EDS, SEM, and conductive AFM of the same area of the cathode in the cross-section. Using SEM imaging, we identified the polished area of interest. The EDS map reveals the cathode tape‘s elemental composition, identifying the solid electrolyte, NMC particles, and carbon additive. C-AFM confirms the high conductivity of the carbon additive and its role in interparticle connectivity. This AFM-in-SEM correlation helps distinguish material functions or failures while keeping the sample surface unchanged.


Measurement modes: AFM topography, C-AFM, SEM, EDS


LiteScope benefits:

  • Air-free sample transfer between BIB polisher, glovebox and AFM-in-SEM
  • Complex understanding of individual cathode components and interparticle connections
  • Correlation of Topography, SEM, EDS, and Conductivity


Acknowledgement: Peter Priecel and Libor Novak, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Ondrej Klvac, FEEC BUT