SPM Analysis of Surface Film Formation on Graphite Negative Electrodes in Lithium-Ion Batteries

Abstract

We report herein on the mechanism for surface film formation on graphite negative electrodes of lithium-ion batteries in several ethylene carbonate (EC)- and propylene carbonate (PC)-based electrolyte solutions. This review is based on extensive studies of surface morphology changes of graphite during charging and discharging and ion-solvent interactions in various non-aqueous electrolyte solutions. In situ electrochemical scanning probe microscopy (SPM) was used as a main analytical tool, and effects of co-solvents on surface film formation in EC-based solutions, effects of film-forming additives on surface film formation in PC-based solutions, and growth of surface film are discussed and reviewed in this article.