Event

Investigation of Lithium Dendrite Growth and Interactions with a Polymer Separator

Tuesday, July 18, 2023
2:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m.
DeWalt Conference Room, 2164 (Martin Hall), University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, USA.
Contact Prof. Michael Pecht for more information.
pecht@umd.edu

Abstract:

Lithium dendrites are metallic structures that initiate and grow inside a lithium battery during charging. Lithium dendrite growth can negatively affect battery cycle life and safety. Observing the dendrite growth process and revealing its interaction with other components is necessary to improve battery safety. This study uses a transparent optical cell to directly observe the dendrite growth process, explore the lithium dendrite growth modes under various current densities, evaluate the interactions between the dendrite and separator, and explore the effect of electrolyte additives on dendrite growth behavior. The dendrite growth under different current densities showed the transition of dendrite morphologies from a dense structure to a porous structure. The examination of the dendrite-separator interaction regions showed that dendrites can deform and penetrate the separator. We show that additives can enhance the uniformity of lithium dendrite distribution compared with the dendrite formed in the electrolyte without additives.

Biography:

Lingxi Kong received a B.E. degree in material molding and control engineering from Sichuan University, Sichuan, China, in 2013 and an M.Eng. degree in material science and engineering from the University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA, in 2015, where he is currently a Ph.D. Candidate in mechanical engineering. His research interests include battery supply chain, battery safety, and protection devices, lithium-ion battery testing, and failure analysis of lithium-ion batteries.

This event can be attended in person or via Zoom.

Click here to register and participate via Zoom.