Imaging the surface morphology, chemistry and conductivity of LiNi1/3Fe1/3Mn4/3O4 crystalline facets using scanning transmission X-ray microscopy

Abstract

Scanning transmission X-ray microscopy (STXM) using the X-ray fluorescence mode has been employed to elucidate the chemical structures at Ni, Fe, Mn and O sites from the (111) and (100) facets of micron-sized LiNi_1/3Fe_1/3Mn_4/3O₄ energy material particles. Furthermore, STXM imaging using electron yield mode has mapped out the surface conductivity of the crystalline particles. This study presents a novel approach that visualizes local element segregation, chemistry and conductivity variation among different crystal facets, which will assist further tailoring of the morphology and surface structure of this high voltage spinel lithium ion battery cathode material.