A Modular Atom Probe Concept: Design, Operational Aspects, and Performance of an Integrated APT-FIB/SEM Solution.

Atomic probe tomography (APT) is able to generate three-dimensional chemical maps in atomic resolution. The required instruments for APT have evolved over the last 20 years from an experimental to an established method of materials analysis. Here, we describe the realization of a new modular instrument concept that allows the direct attachment of APT to a dual-beam SEM microscope with the main achievement of fast and direct sample transfer and high flexibility in chamber and component configuration.

Slow-Moving Phase Boundary in Li Ti O.

Lithium titanate is one of the most promising anode materials for high-power demands but such applications desire a complete understanding of the kinetics of lithium transport. The poor diffusivity of lithium in the completely lithiated and delithiated (pseudo spinel) phases challenges to explain the high-rate performance. This study aims at clearing the kinetics of lithium transport using an innovative technique that employs optical microscopy in a constrained region of sputter-deposited thin-film samples.

Electrochromic Behavior and Phase Transformation in LiTiO upon Lithium-Ion Deintercalation/Intercalation.

The impact of phase transformation from spinel-structured LiTiO to rocksalt-type LiTiO on the electrochromic properties of the material is studied. Thin films of LiTiO are deposited on platinum-coated substrates using radio-frequency-ion beam sputtering. In situ and ex situ optical spectroscopy (in reflectance geometry) is performed along with electrochemical characterization.

High capacity rock salt type LiMnO thin film battery electrodes.

Recent investigations of layered, rock salt and spinel-type manganese oxides in composite powder electrodes revealed the mutual stabilization of the Li-Mn-O compounds during electrochemical cycling. A novel approach of depositing such complex compounds as an active cathode material in thin-film battery electrodes is demonstrated in this work. It shows the maximum capacity of 226 mA h g which is superior in comparison to that of commercial LiMnO powder as well as thin films.

Ionic conductivity of melt-frozen LiBH films.

The fast Li conductivity of LiBH envisages its use in all-solid-state batteries. Powders are commonly applied. But here, we study the formation of dense micrometer films by melting, spinning and subsequent solidifying.