In situ, operando characterization of materials for electrochemical devices

For the development of advanced batteries, it is essential to correlate information obtained from the characterization of materials to properties critical to the battery’s performance. In situ/operando characterization and cells specifically designed to conduct such analyses have proven to be the best means of accomplishing that objective. However, complimentary analytical techniques are required to obtain a comprehensive understanding of those changes, pointing to a need for devices that allow for multimodal, in situ/operando characterization of materials and interfaces. This perspective briefly examines the evolution of in situ and operando devices and highlights important considerations in designing such devices. From that discussion arises a clear opportunity regarding the evolution of these devices: magnify their usefulness through incorporating near-simultaneous, multimodal capabilities to advance the development of electrochemical energy storage materials.