Real time X-rays - to probe Li-S battery degradation

Continuing the theme of Li-ion batteries, a team at Standford University have been investigating lithium - sulphur batteries as a alternative. Most electric cars use rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. These account for more than half of the vehicle's total cost. An alternative is the lithium-sulphur battery, which can potentially store five times more energy at a much lower cost. A major drawback with this technology is that after a few dozen cycles of charging and discharging, the battery stops working. Using X-ray diffraction and transmission X-ray microscopy in real time the group are unravelling the complex formation of polysulphides that form at the electrodes and leaking into the electrolyte limit the battery cycle life.