How Spectroscopy is Advancing Battery Research
A recent review article highlights the growing use of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) in battery research.
A recent review article written by Howard D. Dewald, a professor in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Ohio University and his coauthor Slater Twain Bakenhaster, also a professor in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Ohio University and at Kent University, explores current trends in battery analysis. Their review article, published in Applied Electrochemistry, explores the potential of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) in advancing battery research (1).
Lithium ion battery showing lithium ion cells on the table. Generated with AI. | Image Credit: © Alpa - stock.adobe.com
Batteries help power many appliances that we rely on in our daily lives. From electrical vehicles (EVs) to smart phones, batteries are essential in keeping society running. Despite significant investments, lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) must continuously improve to meet the increasing performance demands (2). Current LIBs face significant challenges, including aging mechanisms, environmental concerns, and material limitations. These hurdles have led researchers to explore alternative battery chemistries and innovative diagnostic tools to optimize performance and longevity (1).
EIS is an electroanalytical chemistry technique that has enabled researchers to learn more about LIB properties and degradation mechanisms. Dewald’s review delves into EIS's theoretical foundations, its historical role in battery science, and its promising applications for future advancements (1).
In the review article, the authors highlight four EIS techniques that have not been used extensively, but they offer several advantages that could appeal to researchers. The first technique is machine learning-enhanced EIS (ML-EIS). This EIS technique integrates ML algorithms with EIS data. What this technique allows researchers to do is develop predictive models that can be used to better understand battery aging, efficiency, and potential failure points (1). As a result, the authors state that these models can accelerate the development of next-generation battery technologies by identifying optimal materials and configurations (1).
The second technique is distribution of relaxation times (DRT) analysis. This technique can be used to learn more about charge transport and reaction kinetics within a battery (1). Unlike traditional impedance methods, DRT analysis allows researchers to deconvolute overlapping electrochemical processes, offering clearer insights into battery performance and degradation (1).
The third technique is nonlinear impedance spectroscopy (NLEIS). This technique is an upgrade over standard EIS techniques because it accounts for complex nonlinearities in battery behavior (1). This approach is useful when researchers want to accurately characterize high-performance battery systems, particularly in extreme operating conditions (1).
The last technique the researchers highlight is localized EIS measurements. Localized EIS measurements enable researchers to investigate specific regions within a battery, which can help them identify weak spots and optimize electrode design for improved efficiency and durability (1).
Advanced analytical techniques, including surface-sensitive techniques such as laser ablation–inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS), are required to analyze degradation mechanisms in LIBs (2). This review article emphasizes the importance of adopting advanced EIS methodologies to overcoming existing limitations. The researchers argue that using EIS techniques can help researchers accelerate battery development, enhance battery safety and performance, and optimize battery materials (1). By leveraging these techniques, the authors explain, researchers may be able to make significant strides in developing the next generation of energy storage solutions that can contribute positively to powering many technological devices and meeting performance demands.
As the global economy increasingly depends on electric batteries, addressing their stability, sustainability, and safety remains paramount (2). The review article underscores the importance of alternative battery systems and highlights how advanced EIS techniques can be used to potentially broker new advancements in battery science.
References
- Bakenhaster, S. T.; Dewald, H. D. Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy and Battery Systems: Past Work, Current Research, and Future Opportunities. Appl. Electrochem. 2025, ASAP. DOI: 10.1007/s10800-025-02273-6
- Harte, P.; Winter, M.; Wiemers-Meyer, S.; Nowak, S. Analysis of Deposition Patterns and Influencing Factors of Lithium and Transition Metals Deposited on Lithium Ion Battery Graphitic Anodes by LA-ICP-MS. Spectroscopy 2025, 40 (1), 30–33. DOI: 10.56530/spectroscopy.ft6765o3
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