Tutorial EN10—Advanced Tools for Characterizing Electrochemical Interfaces from Single Atom to Device

Instructors: Alba Garzon Manjon, Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology; Jonathan Almer, Argonne National Laboratory; Shelly Kelly, Argonne National Laboratory

This tutorial focuses on the fundamentals and applications of several advanced characterization techniques to understand the atomic/electronic structures of energy materials (e.g. batteries and electrocatalysts). The first part of the tutorial will focus on electron microscopy and spectroscopy of energy materials with emphasis on reactive materials and liquid-solid interfaces. Fundamental and practical aspects of scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) and spectroscopic mapping with examples on single atom catalysts will be discussed. The second part of the tutorial will include detailed explanations of recent advances and developments in X-ray spectroscopy and scattering, particularly new techniques from the 4th generation of synchrotron X-ray sources (e.g., the incoming upgrade of Advanced Photon Source)including X-ray diffraction, pair distribution function, X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) and X-ray emission spectroscopy (XES) with in-situ operando capabilities. 

The learning objectives of this tutorial includes:

1. Be familiar with the fundamental principles of electron microscopy/energy loss spectroscopy, and X-ray scattering and spectroscopy;
2. Understand what information can be obtained through these techniques;
3. Be aware of the applications of these techniques in electrochemical energy storage and conversion;
4. Have an idea of choosing the right technique(s) for research.

Three invited speakers, Prof. Dr. Alba Garzon Manjon from Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Spain, Dr. Jonathan Almer and Dr. Shelly Kelly from Argonne National Laboratory of USA, will highlight examples of these techniques used in their energy materials research in addition to providing details on principles. The tutorial will therefore cover both fundamentals and frontier research, and emphasize the strategies to use proper tools for the studies of electrochemical energy systems from single atom to devices.

Tutorial Schedule