November 2017

In order to explore fundamental effects of lithium ion batteries it is typically important to prepare model systems in order to study individual effects on a given system. The preparation and analysis of thin and planar films of electrode materials for example can allow insights into the interface interaction between these materials and the electrolyte. The preparation of these films is influenced by a multitude of different parameters. In the given example the influence of the substrate material on the film morphology and texture is depicted.The thin films shown were prepared by spin coating of LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 on silicon wafers and yttria doped zirconia (YSZ/Pt). In this method a stoichiometric solution of the corresponding metal salts is dripped onto a spinning substrate and the resulting film is crystalized in an oven. The thickness of the film can be controlled by depositing multiple layers. The samples on silicon (a) and a cross section c)) show very poor adhesion and are strained which causes cracks and deformations to form. On YSZ/Pt however (b) and cross section d)) an identically prepared film appears stable and individually deposited layers are visible in the cross section. Therefore, the preparation conditions have to be controlled specifically for every substrate material. (Picture submitted by Patrick Schichtel.)