In situ and operando characterization techniques are essential for deepening our scientific understanding of how electrical energy storage systems behave under real-world operating conditions. At AIF, we are expanding our capabilities with two powerful and complementary techniques that enable researchers to observe dynamic electrochemical processes in real time with high spatial resolution. These advancements will benefit researchers studying ion intercalation mechanisms, ion transport kinetics, and solid-liquid interface dynamics. AIF’s new electrochemical X-ray diffraction (ec-XRD) and electrochemical scanning transmission electron microscopy (ec-STEM) platforms provide unprecedented insights into the structural and electrochemical evolution of materials driven by electrochemistry.

In situ/Operando ec-XRD is a critical technique for probing charge storage mechanisms in batteries during electrochemical cycling. With the addition of a specialized coin cell holder for the Empyrean XRD, researchers can now observe real-time changes in the crystal structure of battery materials during operation. A pre-prepared coin cell, equipped with a Kapton window, can be easily loaded into the stage, allowing XRD patterns to be recorded simultaneously while cycling the electrochemical cell with an external potentiostat.

In situ ec-STEM is a cutting-edge materials characterization technique that enables researchers to perform quantitative electroanalytical measurements while simultaneously capturing dynamic electrochemical processes with high spatial resolution imaging, electron diffraction, and spectroscopy. The Protochips Triton AX, the world’s first system to integrate quantitative electrochemical measurements with controlled cooling and heating (-50°C to 300°C), is compatible with the Thermo Fisher Scientific Titan and Talos microscopes. Access to this capability is only available through collaboration with Prof. Raymond Unocic.