The importance of renewable energy is paramount in averting ecological crises, leading to substantial research efforts and funding aimed at clean energy technologies. Innovations in battery technology are particularly critical, especially for the development of durable batteries used in portable devices and electric vehicles. Despite advancements, several obstacles impede the desirable battery performance, including limitations in capacity, cycle longevity, charging efficiency, and large-scale production for the novel chemistries. Additionally, geopolitical factors, such as the scarcity of raw materials and import restrictions, exacerbate these challenges.
To tackle these issues, ongoing research is dedicated to the creation of novel battery materials, the optimization of components, and enhancements in Lithium-Ion and Solid-State batteries. Materials science, especially microscopy techniques, is essential in battery research, allowing for an in-depth examination of materials across various scales. However, difficulties such as sensitivity to moisture, preservation of sample integrity, and the need to correlate data across different length scales pose significant challenges. In response to these needs, we have established workflows for battery analysis aimed at facilitating efficient and impactful research outcomes. We present air-free battery analysis workflows utilizing a range of microscopy tools, including FEG SEM, FIB-SEM, X-Ray Microscope, and Ion Mill. Furthermore, we showcase applications of battery analysis, such as observing Lithium surfaces and performing cross-sectioning at various temperatures.