Cracking predictions of lithium-ion battery electrodes by X-ray computed tomography and modelling

Dear iMechanicians,

I hope that the following work is of interest. We conduct the first multi-physics fracture simulation of Li-Ion battery electrodes. Phase field was combined with advanced X-ray CT imaging to predict degradation of realistic microstructures. 

Cracking predictions of lithium-ion battery electrodes by X-ray computed tomography and modelling
A. M. Boyce, E. Martínez-Pañeda, A. Wade, Y. S. Zhang, J.J. Bailey, T.M.M. Heenan, D.J.L. Brett, P.R. Shearing

Journal of Power Sources 526, 231119 (2022)
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpowsour.2022.231119

Fracture of lithium-ion battery electrodes is found to contribute to capacity fade and reduce the lifespan of a battery. Traditional fracture models for batteries are restricted to consideration of a single, idealised particle; here, advanced X-ray computed tomography (CT) imaging, an electro-chemo-mechanical model and a phase field fracture framework are combined to predict the void-driven fracture in the electrode particles of a realistic battery electrode microstructure. The electrode is shown to exhibit a highly heterogeneous electrochemical and fracture response that depends on the particle size and distance from the separator/current collector. The model enables prediction of increased cracking due to enlarged cycling voltage windows, cracking susceptibility as a function of electrode thickness, and damage sensitivity to discharge rate. This framework provides a platform that facilitates a deeper understanding of electrode fracture and enables the design of next-generation electrodes with higher capacities and improved degradation characteristics.