Raman spectroscopic and electrochemical studies of lithium battery components

The species in the electrolyte and at, or near, the working electrode surface of an operating cell can be identified by Raman spectroscopy. Examples for the electrolyte methyl acetate/LiAsF6, without and with CO2 saturation, are described. The role of the additive, tetramethylammonium, is suggested. Conclusions from measurements of corrosion potential-time transients following in situ cutting to expose bare lithium metal to various organic electrolyte environments are reviewed. Preliminary Raman spectral measurements of carbon-coke anodes suggest that charging cycles cause intraplanar rupturing, thus reducing the microcrystallite size and causing measurable disorder.