Quasi-Situ CV and EIS Testings Based on a Silicon Anode: A Course for Undergraduate-Designed Electrochemical Laboratories

Electrochemistry is a cornerstone of chemistry education, yet traditional laboratory curricula often lack hands-on experiences with advanced characterization techniques. This study presents an undergraduate-friendly experiment integrating cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) to investigate the dynamic behavior of silicon anodes in lithium-ion batteries. By combining equivalent circuit modeling (ECM) and distribution of relaxation times (DRT) analysis, students explore structural evolution and interfacial reactions during lithiation/delithiation. The experiment emphasizes practical skills in data interpretation and fosters connections between theoretical concepts and real-world applications. Postexperiment assessments revealed a 34% improvement in students’ test scores, with over 85% of lab reports achieving high-quality standards. This cost-effective and scalable approach enhances students’ proficiency in electrochemical techniques while inspiring innovation in energy storage research.