The Bruker SKYSCAN 2214 CMOS Edition is a high-resolution X-ray nanotomograph designed for non-destructive 3D imaging of various sample sizes and materials. It features a high-power transmission X-ray source with a 500-nanometer spot size and diamond window, ensuring exceptional image clarity.
The system supports four interchangeable detectors, including a 6-megapixel flat-panel and three 15/16-megapixel scientific CMOS (sCMOS) detectors, allowing flexible optimization of field of view and resolution. The sCMOS detectors provide a large dynamic range and low noise, enabling detailed imaging of both high- and low-density structures.
It can scan objects up to 300 mm in diameter and 20 kg in weight, achieving 3D resolutions down to 500 nanometers for smaller samples. Advanced features like automatic variable acquisition geometry and phase-contrast enhancement ensure high-quality imaging with faster scan times. The system integrates Bruker’s 3D.SUITE software, offering GPU-accelerated reconstruction, morphological analysis, and visualization tools.
Ideal for materials science, energy storage, electronics, and preclinical research, it provides detailed structural analysis of composites, battery components, electronics, and biological tissues, making it a powerful tool for both industrial and academic applications.
The Bruker SKYSCAN 2214 plays a crucial role in the lithium-ion battery (Li-ion) industry, enabling high-resolution, non-destructive imaging of battery components at multiple scales. Its ability to analyze internal structures with sub-micron resolution allows for detailed investigation of materials, defects, and degradation mechanisms, improving battery design, performance, and reliability.
Key Applications in Li-ion Batteries:
- Electrode Microstructure Analysis
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- Provides 3D imaging of anode and cathode materials, helping researchers analyze particle morphology, porosity, and material distribution.
- Understanding the microstructure is essential for optimizing electrode formulation, ensuring uniform lithium-ion transport and maximizing battery efficiency.
- Separator Integrity and Defect Detection
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- The separator is critical for preventing short circuits in Li-ion cells.
- With nanoscale resolution, the system can detect structural weaknesses, cracks, or contaminants that may lead to performance degradation or safety risks.
- Solid-Electrolyte Interface (SEI) Formation
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- The SEI layer is crucial for battery longevity and stability.
- Enables researchers to observe the evolution of the SEI layer over charge/discharge cycles, helping to develop longer-lasting and more stable batteries.
- Failure Analysis and Degradation Studies
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- Over time, batteries degrade due to factors such as dendrite growth, electrode delamination, and particle cracking.
- Enables real-time tracking of degradation pathways, allowing manufacturers to improve materials and processes.
- In-Situ and Operando Studies
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- The system supports in-situ imaging, meaning batteries can be scanned under operational conditions to study dynamic changes during charging and discharging.
- This capability is valuable for developing next-generation battery technologies, such as solid-state batteries.
Advantages Over Traditional Methods
- Non-destructive imaging: Unlike destructive cross-sectioning, SKYSCAN 2214 provides a complete internal view without damaging the sample.
- Multi-scale imaging: The system can scan large battery cells while zooming into sub-micron features for a comprehensive analysis.
- Phase-contrast imaging: Enhances visualization of low-density materials like polymer separators.
