Fracture of active electrode material is a potential failure mechanism in lithium‐ion batteries, which is driven by the volume and stress changes during repeated lithium insertion and extraction. Therefore, it is essential to characterize the evolution of the stress field under electrode operating conditions. In this paper, we develop an image‐based model for nickel–cobalt–manganese cathode, utilizing electron X‐ray computed tomography (CT) scanning data. The model captures the structure of the electrodes and elucidates the impact of rates and temperatures on its performance. The simulation model demonstrates the relationship between electrode strain and influencing factors, thereby highlighting the deformation mechanisms of the electrode. The uneven stress distribution and the presence of high stress in certain areas of electrode particles during cycling are primarily caused by the nonuniformity in the electrochemical reaction extent of the electrode particles. Electrode particles subjected to cycling at low temperatures or high discharge rates, or located farther from the separator, experience greater stress, which can lead to electrode cracking. The validity of the simulation is confirmed through comparison with CT imaging results. Electrochemical–mechanical coupling simulations based on the microstructure of electrode provide a powerful tool for revealing the mechanical failure mechanisms of particles within the electrode.
Qiao et al. (Mon,) studied this question.