X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy study of Li, Na, and Mg foils: Composition and oxidation kinetics of pristine materials in batteries

Abstract

This study focuses on the detailed characterization of metallic Li, Na, and Mg surfaces under conditions relevant to their use in metal-based batteries. X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) was employed to analyze and compare surface compositions before and after manual scraping, enabling the identification of species present on the metal surfaces prior to their integration into cell systems. The study also included sequential sputtering processes to investigate the internal composition of surface layers, providing insights into the material's depth profile. Oxidation processes were examined by analyzing the sputtered surfaces at various time intervals, revealing the mechanisms and kinetics of oxidation for each material in the ultra-high vacuum environment typical of XPS equipment. These findings are crucial for understanding the intrinsic properties and chemical stability of the primary materials, offering valuable insights into their stability and performance in rechargeable battery applications.