Graphite surface disorder detection using in situ Raman microscopy

The most recent results from our work in in situ Raman microscopy on graphitic materials for lithium-ion batteries are discussed. Significant development in the construction of the in situ cell has allowed the measurement of the electrode through a thin layer of electrolyte. This has provided spectra with improved signal to noise ratios and non-detection of electrolyte bands. The utilisation of a computer-controlled X–Y table has allowed a comprehensive study of lithium intercalation into four separate points on the graphite electrode. The structural arrangement of graphite affects the electrochemical performance of this material. Multipoint measurement of a disordered graphitic material, possessing a prominent D-band (1330 cm− 1), has shown intercalation heterogeneities between the four points measured. Varying potentials at which the D-band disappears and the appearances of the G-band doublet bands (1578 cm− 1 and 1608 cm− 1) are observed, even at a low charging rate of C/37.