Simultaneous Analysis of Evolved Gas Produced by the Degradation of a Lithium-Ion Battery

Significance of the Topic

Analysis of gases evolved during lithium-ion battery degradation is critical for ensuring battery safety, performance and lifespan.
Characterizing internal gas composition provides insights into degradation pathways and potential failure mechanisms.

Objectives and Study Overview

This study demonstrates a simultaneous analytical approach for C1–C3 hydrocarbons and inorganic gases produced inside rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.
Using a single gas chromatograph system equipped with a plasma-based barrier discharge ionization detector, the method aims to streamline analysis without carrier gas switching or multiple instrument setups.

Methodology and Instrumentation

• Instrument: Shimadzu Tracera GC-2010 Plus A with BID-2010 Plus detector
• Software: GCsolution
• Column: Micropacked ST
• Temperature program: 35 °C (2.5 min) → 20 °C/min → 250 °C (0 min) → 15 °C/min → 270 °C (5.42 min), total runtime 20 min
• Carrier gas: Helium with pressure program 250 kPa (2.5 min) → 15 kPa/min → 400 kPa (7.5 min)
• Injection: Split 1:10, 50 µL sample volume, injector at 150 °C
• Detector: BID at 280 °C, discharge gas volume 70 mL/min

Main Results and Discussion

The chromatographic analysis of internal battery gases confirmed the simultaneous detection of hydrogen, carbon monoxide, methane, carbon dioxide, ethylene, ethane, propylene and propane.
Quantitative concentration ratios (excluding oxygen and nitrogen) obtained by baseline calibration were:

• Hydrogen 22 %
• Carbon monoxide 9.0 %
• Methane 47 %
• Carbon dioxide 9.0 %
• Ethylene 4.6 %
• Ethane 4.6 %
• Propylene 2.3 %
• Propane 2.2 %

Linearity tests using standard gas mixtures demonstrated excellent correlation coefficients (R2 > 0.9978) across all target analytes, validating the method's accuracy and precision.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Single-system analysis reduces complexity and resource requirements.
• High sensitivity enables detection of low-volume gas samples.
• Applicable to quality control, failure analysis and research involving battery aging and safety assessment.

Future Trends and Opportunities

• Integration of on-line monitoring for real-time gas analysis in battery modules.
• Coupling with mass spectrometry or advanced detectors for expanded compound coverage.
• Application to emerging battery chemistries and next-generation energy storage systems.
• Data-driven diagnostics using machine learning for predictive maintenance.

Conclusion

The presented GC-BID method provides a robust, high-sensitivity platform for comprehensive analysis of evolved gases from lithium-ion batteries.
Its simplicity and performance support enhanced battery diagnostics, safety evaluation and product development.

Reference

1. Shimadzu Corporation (2013) Simultaneous Analysis of Evolved Gas Produced by the Degradation of a Lithium-Ion Battery, Application Note LAAN-J-GC-E007.