Project description
New microscopy tool to record energy loss in next-generation batteries
Nickel-rich cathodes are highly valued for next-generation batteries because they store massive energy amounts at a lower cost, which is essential for extending the modern device ranges. However, these batteries quickly lose their power because vital metals dissolve into the surrounding liquid, causing the internal system to break down. The exact cause remains a mystery because today’s microscopes are not powerful enough to see this happen. Funded by the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions programme, the VISION project will combine two advanced light-microscopy techniques to watch individual atoms move in real time. Recording exactly how these metals dissolve and how the liquid components trigger the decay will enable researchers to finally design highly stable, next-generation batteries that charge better and last longer.
Objective
Ni-rich layered oxides LiNixMnyCozO2 (NMC, x ≥ 0.8) are among the most promising cathode materials for high-energy-density lithium-ion batteries due to their high theoretical capacity and reduced cost. However, interfacial electro-chemo-mechanical instabilities, particularly the dissolution of transition metals (TM) at the electrode–electrolyte interface, continue to compromise their long-term stability. TM dissolution interlinks phase transitions, parasitic interfacial reactions, and irreversible capacity loss, yet its underlying mechanisms remain elusive owing to the limited spatial and temporal resolution of conventional characterization techniques. This project proposes the development of a multimodal operando optical imaging platform capable of directly visualizing the spatial origin and dynamics of TM²⁺ dissolution at single-ion resolution. The platform integrates ion-localization optical nanoscopy (ION), developed by the applicant, with interferometric scattering (iSCAT) microscopy, a complementary technique introduced to battery research by the host group. This combination enables real-time, correlative mapping of TM ion release alongside lattice Li⁺ distribution within individual NMC particles. By synchronously visualizing Li⁺ heterogeneity and systematically evaluating the influence of electrolyte components (salts, solvents, and additives), this approach allows for mechanistic decoupling of lattice-driven and electrolyte-induced degradation pathways. The platform will enable quantitative assessment of electrolyte effects and guide the rational design of optimized cathode materials to improve the cycling stability of Ni-rich NMC cathodes. Beyond advancing fundamental insights into Ni-rich NMC cathode degradation, the proposed methodology establishes a versatile operando imaging framework applicable to other energy-dense TM-based cathode systems, such as lithium-rich layered oxides, where similar TM dissolution challenges persist.
Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
This project's classification has been human-validated.
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
This project's classification has been human-validated.
Keywords
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.1.2 - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA)
MAIN PROGRAMME
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Topic(s)
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Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Funding Scheme
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Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
HORIZON-TMA-MSCA-PF-EF - HORIZON TMA MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships
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Call for proposal
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Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) HORIZON-MSCA-2025-PF
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CB2 1TN CAMBRIDGE
United Kingdom
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