Multi-Scale X-Ray Imaging Technologies for Rechargeable Batteries

The rapid advancement in electric vehicles and electrochemical energy storage technology has raised the demands placed on rechargeable batteries. It is essential to comprehend the operational principles and degradation mechanisms of batteries across multiple scales to propel the research on rechargeable batteries for the next generation forward. Microstructure, phase information, and lattice of energy materials in both two dimensions and three dimensions can be intuitively obtained through the utilization of x-ray imaging techniques. Additionally, x-ray imaging technology is increasingly gaining attention due to its non-destructive nature and high penetrative capability, enabling in situ experiments and multi-scale spatial resolution. In this review, we initially overview the basic principles and characteristics of several key x-ray imaging technologies. Each x-ray imaging technology is tailored to specific application scenarios. Furthermore, examples of multi-scale implementations of x-ray imaging technologies in the field of rechargeable batteries are discussed. This review is anticipated to augment the comprehension of readers for x-ray imaging techniques as well as to stimulate the development of novel concepts and approaches in rechargeable battery research.