A Coupled NMR and Differential Capacity Study of the Consumption of Electrolyte and Additive Components during the Formation Cycle of Li-Ion Pouch Cells

Understanding the side reactions occurring inside lithium-ion cells remain a significant challenge, presenting opportunities for innovation. In this context, we developed a coupled 1H NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance) and dQ/dV (differential capacity) analysis method aimed at enhancing our understanding of these reactions during the formation cycle. Using deuterated acetonitrile as an extraction solvent, we measured the relative consumption of electrolyte components inside different electrolyte, including in 1.2M LiPF6 EC:EMC 3:7 2% VC and 1.2M LiPF6 EC:EMC 3:7 2% VC + 1% DTD electrolytes at different voltage. Our NMR observations were subsequently compared with electrochemical data to better understand and validate the results. These findings offer valuable insights into lithium-ion cell dynamics and mark a significant step towards the advancement of diagnostic techniques.