Introduction

As batteries are becoming more prominent in fields and products such as electronics and electric cars, scientists are working to find ways to make them more efficient and effective. This led to scientists at Drexel University developing and using a fluorescent imaging method to better predict how different materials in batteries compare with one another. Ultimately this testing will lead to effective materials being used in batteries which will make the batteries perform better in different areas.

Who is working on the project?

The project is worked on by a team of researchers in Drexel University’s department of chemical and biological engineering. This team is led by Maureen Tang, PhD, associate professor of chemical and biological engineering and affiliate faculty of mechanical engineering and mechanics. Some key skills that these researchers possess include knowledge of material science, chemical engineering, biological engineering and how lithium-ion batteries work.

What is the project?

The goal of the project is to utilize fluorescent imaging in a way that allows the evaluation of many different materials before they are produced in batteries. For instance, Jeff Martin writes, “a way to forecast lithium-ion battery performance by analyzing microscopic images of electrodes before cells are ever assembled, potentially transforming quality control in an industry where cell assembly and formation account for more than 60% of manufacturing costs.” This reveals how the analysis of various fluorescent images leads to benefits for manufacturers deciding the best materials.

How does the project work?

In order to get the nearly 200 fluorescence images analyzed by the researchers, a process involving electrochemical fluorescence microscopy and a machine learning model is used. Electrochemical fluorescence microscopy is when the team maps electronic connectivity on an electrode that strictly lights up where electrons flow freely. Then a machine learning model is trained on the images to have extremely high accuracy and errors below 2%.

Drexel’s Impact

A major reason that this project by Drexel University is so impactful is because previous testing methods tested battery cells after they were already manufactured. On the other hand, this approach lowers costs because the analysis is done easier in the process. Another reason that it is so important is quality control in which faulty electrodes can be found before problems arise.