Powering the next generation: How Warwick is driving innovation in chemical and solid-state battery technologies
The development of modern battery technology is integral in the global transition to sustainable energy and electronics. Innovation is dependent on advanced scientific techniques that can analyse the effectiveness of battery materials. Many of these techniques are available to external clients through Warwick Scientific Services, allowing industry and academic users to drive advancements in battery performance and lifespan.
Challenges in industry
Battery development is a highly competitive and challenging field where innovations are driven by the demand for improved efficiency, longevity, and sustainability. Our state-of-the-art facilities offer a range of capabilities that are equipped to meet industry demands for testing and analysing both chemical and solid-state batteries:
X-ray diffraction (XRD) can be used to investigate the crystallographic structures of powdered battery materials, providing crucial insights into structural changes during charging and discharging. By revealing how atoms are arranged, this technique provides key insights into phase transitions, crystal orientation, and material stability - all crucial factors for enhancing battery capacity, lifespan, and efficiency.
In this context, Warwick is no longer limited to solely powder diffraction techniques, having acquired the UK’s first electron diffractometer. The stronger interaction of electrons with matter allows single-crystal diffraction analysis of microcrystalline battery constituents, providing unprecedented structural detail.
X-ray computed tomography (XCT) offers high-resolution 3D imaging of battery components, such as electrodes and separators, as well as the entire cell structure. It helps detect internal defects like cracks, voids or degradation that can affect performance. This non-destructive technique is invaluable for quality control and improving battery design.
Photoemission spectroscopy provides detailed surface-level analysis of battery materials. It can be used to examine electronic structure and surface chemistry, revealing how these factors impact battery lifespan, particularly in terms of material degradation.
Electrochemistry techniques such as scanning electrochemical cell microscopy (SECCM) enable highly precise mapping of electrochemical activity across a battery's surface. This nanoscale analysis of reactions at electrode surfaces helps pinpoint inefficiencies in battery charge-discharge cycles and can be used to identify new electrode materials.
Work with Warwick to help you drive innovation
The University of Warwick’s state-of-the-art facilities and world-class expertise offer a comprehensive approach to battery research, integrating structural, chemical, and electrochemical analysis.
XRD Research Technology Platform (RTP): Warwick’s XRD facility features advanced, high-resolution diffractometers, which provide crystalline structures and phase transition analysis, essential for optimising performance and stability. It also plays host to the new, dedicated electron diffractometer.
Electrochemistry and Interfaces Group: Warwick academics invented a unique glovebox SECCM, allowing them to study nanoscale electrochemical reactions. This technique has shown considerable value in helping to improve overall efficiency and durability of chemical battery cells.
XCT RTP: The XCT facility houses five high-resolution scanners which can image a wide range of sample sizes and materials. They can provide detailed 3D images of internal battery structures, including the ability to capture battery performance in real-time.
Photoemission RTP: Warwick’s photoemission facility hosts two instruments that offer in-depth analysis of surface chemistry properties, vital for battery longevity.
The Battery Materials and Cells Group in WMG also offers a range of facilities for the development of novel energy storage materials.
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Contact Us
Get in touch to discuss how we can help solve your challenges. Contact Claire Gerard, Warwick Scientific Services Manager (). We look forward to collaborating with you.