Analysis of Battery Materials by X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy

X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) is nowadays one of the primary techniques for the characterisation of battery materials, due to its ability to identify lithium compounds and characterise them in a quantitative manner. In the latest evolution, the technique has been adapted and improved to couple information about the electrode materials with the device performance parameters. While a powerful tool, XPS is also a complex technique, which requires a careful design of experiments and data interpretation. This chapter provides an overview of the state of the art in the technique as applied to the field of battery materials, signposting strengths, pitfalls, and opportunities for future development.