By Nel PreTech
Non-destructive visualization for battery R&D, manufacturing, and recycling Nel PreTech Corporation uses high resolution, X-ray based CT scanning to deliver inspection and metrology data on lithium-based batteries. There is a growing demand for battery safety, sustainability, and performance. We help battery OEMs, tier suppliers, and innovators understand what’s going on internally so they can speed to market with confidence. Experience our collaborative approach and top-of-line, 3D scanning technology. Reach out for a free quote and let us help you validate or audit your battery lines. Types of Lithium-Based Batteries for CT Inspection Computed tomography (CT) scanning can be useful for failure analysis, design validation, quality assurance, or measurement on a wide range of battery types. Here are the lithium-based models suitable for CT: - Lithium-ion (Li-ion) - Lithium polymer (LiPo) - Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) - Lithium manganese oxide (LiMn2O4) - Lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) - Lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide (NMC) - Lithium nickel cobalt aluminum oxide (NCA) - Solid-state lithium batteries - Lithium primary (non-rechargeable) Inspection Areas Unique to Lithium-Based Batteries When inspecting battery component performance, wear, positioning, or connections, CT scanning is the preferred, non-destructive method. Lithium-based batteries, in particular, require a keener eye, so-to-speak. There are areas of interest unique to lithium batteries due to their internal structure, energy density, and thermal runaway risk. CT scanning is used to detect: - Alignment on electrodes - Layering, compression, or winding of electrodes - Tears or folds in separators - Contact points - Delamination - Weld quality - Cracks or voids - Tab misalignment - Contaminants or inclusions Post-Cycling Failure Analysis Sometimes charging and discharging of lithium batteries can cause internal shorts. This is due to the formation of lithium dendrites or metallic filaments. CT inspection may be needed for the detection or precursors of thermal runaway as well. CT scanning gives access to: - Dendrite pathways - Dendrite growth into separators Lithium Battery Cells Lithium batteries present a complex layering of structures. In addition to the internal inspection of lithium battery components, the encapsulation may need visualization as well. Whether pouch, cylindrical or prismatic cells, CT scanning is useful for a variety of detections: - Micro-defects or cracks - Seal area failures - Spot weld defects Use Cases for Lithium Battery Inspection - Pre-production validation - Root Cause Analysis - Supplier Quality Audits - Production Batch Sampling - R&D and Prototyping - Pre-recycling Inspection Let’s Talk About Your Lithium Batteries Whether you're solving a one-off defect, inspecting before recycling, or validating materials, Nel PreTech has the CT scanning capacity, engineering insight, and reporting tools to support your next breakthrough.
