bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Understanding the Phase Transitions in Tin Foil Electrodes for Sodium-Ion Batteries through Light Microscopy and Kinetic Analysis
Authors: Zhang JIA , Zheng Tianye , Guo Xiaoyang , CHENG Ka-wai Eric , LAM Kwok-ho , Boles Steven T 
Published: February 2024

Group IVA elements exhibit some interesting sodium capabilities via electrochemical alloying processes (except carbon). Among them, tin is believed to be the most promising anode candidate for sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) due to its simple fabrication and monolithic form (e.g., metallic foils).[1] Nevertheless, tin foil anodes usually fail prematurely after only a handful of cycles. This poor reversibility is reported to be largely associated with the structural collapse of tin electrodes caused by huge volume differences among various Na-Sn phases (up to ~420%).[2][3] The volume change and the number of stress-induced cracks during different phase transitions can be different, given that these intermediate sodium-containing tin phases have different crystal structures and mechanical properties.[4] To prolong the lifetime of tin foil electrodes, it is crucial to determine which phase transitions have a greater impact on crack formation in the tin electrode and deliberately mitigate the problematic phase transitions.
In this work, the mechanisms and kinetics of the phase transitions that occur in the sodiation of tin foil are extensively investigated using operando light microscopy and robust electrochemical techniques. Ex situ X-ray diffraction (XRD) (Figure 1) reveals that the initial sodiation of tin foil begins with a significant crystalline to amorphous transition (i.e., c-Sn to a-NaSn), followed by the a-NaSn to c-Na9Sn4 and the c-Na9Sn4 to c-Na15Sn4 transitions. To further understand these transitions, we introduce a new battery configuration for light microscopy to observe the dynamic change of the cross-section macrostructure of tin foil electrodes during cycling. It is expected that the observation could partly quantify the volume expansion during different phase transitions, directly visualize the formation of cracks, and accurately estimate the sodium diffusion coefficient in tin foil electrodes. Moreover, the change of charge transfer resistance as a function of sodiation depth is measured using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), shedding light on the degradation mechanism. Besides, potentiostatic intermittent titration technique (PITT) is also employed to determine the role of diffusion or interfacial charge transfer on the whole kinetics of tin anode at different depths of discharge. These investigations could yield fundamental insights into the sodiation mechanisms and kinetics of tin foil electrodes, and more importantly, provide guidance for the utilization of binder- and additive-free tin foil as a reliable SIB anode.

Figure 1
Influence of Tin (Sn) Dispersion on the Synthesis of Silicon Nanowires on Graphite Substrates for Li-Ion Batteries Anodes
Authors: Santa Maria Luigi Jacopo , Amjad M. Zain Bin , Capkova Dominika , Geaney Hugh , Sankaran Abinaya M 
Published: February 2024

In recent years, because of a more prominent power electrification, lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have attracted more and more interest in the scientific community. The desire to increase the battery performance, capacity, and power density has led to the development of new electrode materials. Silicon has emerged as a prominent anode material for next-generation lithium-ion batteries because of its high capacity [1] (10 times higher than graphite) and energy density. However, its utilization is limited by poor electronic conductivity and significant volume changes (up to 400%) observed during the lithiation-delithiation alloying process [1]. To address these challenges and promote wider adoption of silicon as an anode material, several strategies are being explored. Among these, one of the most promising approaches involves the use of silicon in nanowire form (SiNWs) [2,3] . SiNWs help to mitigate the volume expansion during cycling due to their nanostructure, hence giving higher capacity retention to the anode. In this study, SiNWs were directly grown on graphite flakes using tin (Sn) metal as seed through a straightforward and scalable synthesis method previously developed in our lab. This poster focused on the aim of achieving good homogeneity and dispersion of all the materials in order to optimize the SiNWs synthesis. To achieve this goal, an in-depth study has been performed on ball-mill mixing, investigating different milling times and speeds, and revealing the significant influence of these parameters on the final product. A comparative analysis between the ball-milled samples and those mixed using standard agitators demonstrates a reduced tendency for the formation of tin clusters in the ball-milled sample. Consequently, the ball-milled samples exhibit higher homogeneity in the distribution of the nanowires. These results have been confirmed by electrochemical tests performed in half-cells, that show the comparison of the performances for SNWs growth with different parameters.
References:

Boukamp, B., G. Lesh, and R. Huggins, All‐solid lithium electrodes with mixed‐conductor matrix. Journal of the Electrochemical Society, 1981. 128(4): p. 725.

Chan, C.K., et al., High-performance lithium battery anodes using silicon nanowires. Nat Nanotechnol, 2008. 3(1): p. 31-5.

Mullane, E., et al., Synthesis of Tin Catalyzed Silicon and Germanium Nanowires in a Solvent–Vapor System and Optimization of the Seed/Nanowire Interface for Dual Lithium Cycling. Chemistry of Materials, 2013. 25(9): p. 1816-1822.
Potential Profiles through the PEM Water Electrolyzer Anode Compartment and Cost-Effective Cell Components
Authors: Proch Sebastian Karl , Kadam Manish , Chiney Abhinandan , Westlinder Jörgen 
Published: February 2024

Potential profiles through the PEM water electrolyzer anode compartment have suggested the replacement of Pt-coated Ti components by more cost-effective materials like carbon and stainless steel [1]. Latest modelling results show that the decoupled potential of the current collector components depends on the presence of additional platinum coatings (Figure 1). These additional coatings are commonly applied at every component interface in the anode compartment to lower the contact resistance and, in turn, the electricity consumption of the electrolyzer. However, due to ionic decoupling in ultrapure feedwater the Pt-coatings can be replaced, e.g., by carbon coatings [1]. Therefore, the properties of vacuum-spray coated Ti macroporous layers (MPLs) on 316L stainless steel as demonstrated by DLR in Stuttgart [2] are well suited to protect the stainless-steel component at a distance of only tens of microns from the anode catalyst layer (ACL) especially in the absence of additional Pt coatings (Figure 1 right). Thus, a new path towards cost effective porous transport layers becomes available.

Figure 1. Left. Open circuit potentials measured ex-situ (O2 saturated H2SO4 pH 4) and in situ (anode pole plate in a PEM water electrolyzer single cell). Right. Modelling of potential profiles through sprayed MPLs [2] in the absence (brown) and presence (grey) of additional Pt coatings in the anode compartment.

References

[1] H. Becker et al. Assessing potential profiles in water electrolysers to minimize titanium use,
Energ. Environmental Sci
. 2022, 15, 2508-2518.
[2] S. Stiber et al. A high-performance, durable and low-cost proton exchange membrane electrolyser with stainless steel components,
Energ. Environmental Sci.
2022, 15, 109-122.

Figure 1
High Performance Anode Binder
Authors: Amin-Sanayei Ramin , Ye Hunter , Wu Wenjun 
Published: February 2024

Binders are inactive but necessary component of the electrodes and without using a proper binder, the performance of LIBs would prematurely degrade. A well-designed binder allows to increase the electrode energy density by reducing the binder demand, as well as increasing the cycle-life by maintaining an adequate mechanical integrity and ionic mobility within the electrode.
This poster will present a newly designed high-performance anode binder by Arkema. IncellionTM EL 1061 is a high purity WB binder, could overcome the limitations of traditional binders, and allows to maximizing the performance of conventional anodes –including graphite loading of > 97%, first cycle efficiency of > 93%, high C-rate capability of 2C/0.2C of > 96.5%, and capacity retention of > 92% after 500-cycles in 18650 cells- without a need to change the anode design. Moreover, double-sided anodes of > 35 mg/cm2 loadings were successfully fabricated using this high-performance binder and tested in 75 Ah high energy density pouch cells needed for demanding applications.
Methods for Characterization of Heterogeneous Aging in Large Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Trippetta Gian Marco , Fang Yuan , Siddiqui Aamer , Lindstrom Rakel , Lindbergh Göran , Ekström Henrik 
Published: February 2024

Lithium-ion batteries have become the predominant storage solution for electrified vehicles and therefore research is moving forward at high speed. The high demand for improvements in extension of the battery life requires effective methods for the detection and understanding of aging phenomena. Recent high energy lithium-ion batteries teardown analyses, performed at KTH [1], have revealed a considerable extent of heterogeneity in the degradation phenomena on multiple levels. These phenomena are expected to strongly affect the rate of ageing of cells, and in turn contribute to an early end-of-life of the system.
This presentation will focus on the description of the characterization methods that will be used for future studies on the uneven distribution of cell ageing. Testing has been performed on multiple configurations of silicon – graphite composite electrodes where, given the large volume expansion of the silicon during operation, has additional variables in the degradation mechanisms.
Material characterization has been performed in the form of cross section SEM, and NMR, following a methodology developed at KTH to quantify Li-plating in different areas of the jellyroll [2], but extending it to Si. On the other hand, electrochemical measurements have been performed with small lab cells under controlled conditions. In parallel a physics-based model for describing the behaviour of such cells is being developed. The model is currently able to interpret quasi-OCV experimental data and derive the behaviour of each active material involved during these processes.
[1] Smith, Alexander J., et al. "Localized lithium plating under mild cycling conditions in high-energy lithium-ion batteries." Journal of Power Sources 573 (2023): 233118.
[2] Fang, Yuan, et al. "Quantifying lithium lost to plating and formation of the solid-electrolyte interphase in graphite and commercial battery components." Applied Materials Today 28 (2022): 101527.
Characterizing the Cathode Degradation Process from Thermal Abuse in Solid State Batteries
Authors: Diaz Megan , Bates Alex Martin , Johnson Nathan Brenner , Preger Yuliya , Torres-Castro Loraine 
Published: February 2024

With an ever-increasing reliance on batteries for all aspects of life, safety of energy storage is a growing concern as reported instances of lithium-ion battery (LIB) fires and even a solid-state battery (SSB) fire arise. However, the understanding of battery safety from a fundamental materials level is not well understood. As the push for higher energy density batteries in the electrification of transportation continues, it is imperative to understand how underlying material degradation and failure affects the safety of current and next-generation lithium battery technology.
In this study, heat release and corresponding degradation due to external heating are explored for the following battery configurations: All solid-state batteries (ASSBs), SSBs containing a low amount of liquid electrolyte, and LIBs. NMC532 cathode was used in all battery configurations, Ta-doped LLZO was used for the solid electrolyte, and LiPF6 in EC/EMC was used as the liquid electrolyte in the SSB and LIB configurations. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) was used to raise microcells to definitive temperatures of interest depending upon their respective exotherm profile. LIB sample heat release was significantly higher than the heat release of the ASSB and SSB, even though the heating temperature range and final temperature were lower for the LIB samples. The disassembled microcell components were then analyzed using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). XRD analysis revealed the LIB samples did not show the presence of the fully degraded rock salt crystalline phase after peak heat release, whereas ASSB and SSB configurations revealed the presence of the rock salt phase. Additionally, SEM image analysis shows no degradation of the LIB particles, while ASSB and SSB samples show surface degradation of the high temperature samples. Decomposition of NMC to the rock salt phase involves the release of oxygen, which may undergo an exothermic reaction inside the SSB. These investigations shed light into the expected extent of NMC decomposition at key temperatures and exothermic heat flow peaks for each battery composition. Future work combining these results with further elemental characterization experiments will pave the way for a materials-level understanding that can be incorporated into the initial design and development stages of next generation lithium batteries, impacting the creation of energy storage devices by ensuring commitment to safety from the ground up.
Prediction of Mycotoxin Response of DNA-Wrapped Nanotube Sensor with Machine Learning
Authors: Rabbani Yahya , Behjati Sara , Lambert Benjamin , Sajjadi Sayyed Hashem , Shariaty-Niassar Mojtaba , Boghossian Ardemis Anoush 
Published: February 2024

DNA-wrapped single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) have demonstrated great versatility in their use as optical sensors. SWCNTs emit a near-infrared fluorescence that is responsive to even the slightest changes in the nanotube environment, enabling sensors that can respond to single-molecule fluctuations within the vicinity of their surfaces. The fluorescence response and surface interactions of these sensors are determined by the DNA wrapping sequence. However, the lack of information on the relationship between the DNA sequence and its effect on the SWCNT fluorescence remains a bottleneck for designing sequences that are specific to analytes of interest. We have recently demonstrated the use of directed volution to control the fluorescence response of SWCNTs through DNA design. Iterative cycles of DNA mutation, screening, and selection allowed us to evolve sequences that yield DNA-wrapped SWCNT sensors with a desired fluorescence response to mycotoxins.
In this work, we apply the screening results of the DNA libraries used in this approach to train machine learning (ML) algorithms. Artificial neural network (ANN) and support vector machine (SVM) methods were used to predict the response of ssDNA-SWCNT sensors to a specific mycotoxin. The reliability of these models was further assessed through cross-validation. The ANN and SVM models with cross-validation were able to accurately classify the various DNA sequences as yielding either a high or low fluorescence response with an accuracy of 73 and 81%, respectively. The models were further used to predict the performance of alternative DNA sequences outside the initial training dataset, using the Hierarchy and k-means++ clustering methods to evaluate the similarity and dissimilarity of each DNA sequence. Compared to the SVM model, the ANN model showed an improved ability to predict high responses for dissimilar DNA sequences. We further applied a combinatorial approach based on SVM and ANN models to design new DNA sequences for improving sensor performance. The success of this approach was validated experimentally, demonstrating the rational design of improved sensors with 95% prediction accuracy.
The application of ML algorithms to directed evolution libraries of DNA thus allows one to accurately map the performances of these sensors within a particular sequence space. The computational success of this mapping provides a framework for replacing current empirical approaches with the rational design of DNA sequences for SWCNT sensing.

Keywords: Nano Biosensor, DNA-SWCNT, Mycotoxin, Machine learning, Directed evolution method.
Developing Hybrid Aqueous Li/Na-Ion Capacitors by Electrodes Synthesized by Facile Recycling and Reuse Process: Waste to Wealth
Authors: Das Himadri Tanaya 
Published: February 2024

The explosive evolution of industrialization and technologies has grabbed eyeball attention in
the current scenario for improving the living standard of the human beings irrespective of the threat and risk possessed by the environment. So to overcome this catastrophe, there has been a significant focus on progressive development of electrochemical energy storage and conversion systems to resolve the intermittency nature of renewable energy sources. The electrochemical energy storage devices such as batteries and supercapacitors have been relied upon the ability to store the charge in the wide potential region with high Coulombic efficiency and long-term stability. However, transition metal oxides are well known, for their high theoretical specific capacity but suffer from low electronic conduction and capacity fading during cycling. To address these shortfalls metal oxides are usually, embedded within a conductive carbon-based matrix (for instance graphene). The use of graphene would afford easy pathway for electron movement and increases the surface area for higher interaction of active electrode materials with electrolyte. Subsequently, graphene based transition metal oxides composites have attracted active research pursuits in synthesizing the low cost effective electrode materials for energy storage devices. And if graphene is recycled and reused then it’s very much cheap and efficient electrodes for hybrid energy storage devices. In this work, electrode materials are developed by facile and economic approach with an aim to achieve improved electrochemical activity. The conversion of utilized electrode materials (e-waste) to efficient graphene electrodes (wealth) is validated in this research. The challenges in this work are (i) recycling pure samples, (ii) resynthesizing the graphene and tuning its layers, (iii) stability and efficiency of electrode materials, (iv) optimization of electrode materials and (v) practical demonstration of hybrid-ion capacitors. The fascinating part of the research finding is both the electrode materials are derived via. recycling, for which device can be promise to be sustainable and clean energy. The details will be presented in ECS conference. Such scheme could serve as precedent to the development of potential electrode materials for energy storage devices.
Advanced Characterization of Pillared Graphene-Based Materials for Supercapacitors
Authors: Ben Cherifi Yassine , Pouget Stephanie , Chenavier Yves , Dubois Lionel , Mendil-Jakani Hakima , Duclairoir Florence 
Published: February 2024

Materials for supercapacitors have to display large surface area to maximize the number of adsorbed ions [1], and they must also possess a hierarchical porosity (Fig. 1) to favour ions diffusion. Graphene-derived materials are studied as they –theoretically- combine all these porosity-related parameters. However experimentally the achieved capacitance (CSP) remains limited because graphene sheets tend to re-aggregate. Our group has selected a method to avoid this issue by creating an expanded graphene structure by bridging and separating the sheets using aliphatic diamine pillars. These assemblies are called Pillared Graphene materials (PGM). Electrochemical results showed that these PGM display higher capacitance than reference non pillared materials [2,3]. However, it was not possible to correlate these storage performances improvements to adsorption active surface area determined with N2 gas sorption (BET), which questions the suitability of this technique for measuring the full porosity of the samples, which is likely to be more accessible in an electrolytic environment. Therefore, to further correlate storage performances of PGM to their structure, structural advanced characterization techniques such as small angle X-ray and neutron scattering (SAXS/SANS) were employed.
These methods enable to assess samples porosity at the local scale (~30 to 140nm) as well as the solid phase density. In the frame of this presentation, SAXS/SANS not only have been applied to pristine materials, but also to specifically formulated samples (pellet, electrodes) in order to highlight structural differences arising from synthesis protocol or from molecular pillaring. The ionic charge diffusion and adsorption in specific porosity ranges, analyzed using preliminary Operando scattering techniques, will be evoked. So far the interplay between increased adsorption sites and improved electrochemical performances has only been intuited on the basis of indirect electrochemical studies; the strategy devised herein proposes the use of direct structural techniques to confirm these interpretations.
Activated Carbon Nanofiber Sheets Derived from Electrospun Lignin: PVA Blend for Flexible Supercapacitors
Authors: Singh Mandeep , Gupta Ashish , Sundriyal Shashank , Dhakate Sanjay 
Published: February 2024

The present investigation reports the performance of ultra-flexible activated carbon nanofiber sheets (ACNF) as a flexible electrode for supercapacitors application. ACNF was fabricated by pre-carbonization at 600 °C and then by activation using potassium hydroxide (KOH) at 800 °C.
These ACNF sheets prepared via the facile electrospinning technique possess the morphology of the nanofiber network with the diameter range (600-1400 nm) of the carbon. The findings demonstrate that the activation method not only enhances the sheet's surface area (806.9 m2/g) and total pore volume (0.519 cc/g) but also eliminates the lignin polymer's inherent sodium (Na) impurity through washing. This interconnected nanofiber sheet possesses high electrical conductivity of 8.40 S/cm. These sheets exhibit cloth-like flexibility with high electrical conductivity and porosity, making them suitable candidates for flexible electrodes. Raman spectroscopy was also carried out to get information about sp2 carbon. Cyclic Voltammetry (CV), Galvanostatic Charge-Discharge (GCD), and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) were performed to understand the electrochemical performance of the sheets as electrodes. This ACNF sheet demonstrate a higher specific capacitance of 203.29 F/g at a current density of 1 A/g in a three-electrode configuration. Furthermore, a flexible supercapacitor device was fabricated using an ACNF sheet due to its high flexibility, stand-alone character, and excellent performance as an electrode. The device exhibits a high energy density of 65.52 Wh/kg and a power density of 1036.27 W/kg with high coulombic efficiency (99.6%) after 10,000 cycles. Also, the prepared device illuminated the seven-segment display in various bending conditions showing its flexibility.