X-Ray Computed Tomography (CT) Technology for Detecting Battery Defects and Revealing Failure Mechanisms

As the global lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) market continues to expand, the necessity for dependable and secure LIBs has reached an all-time high. However, the use of batteries is associated with a number of significant risks, including the potential for thermal runaway and explosions. The meticulous inspection of LIBs is not only essential for guaranteeing their quality and functionality, but also for ensuring their safety. This underscores the criticality of advanced inspection technologies. In contrast to traditional inspection technologies, industrial x-ray computed tomography (CT) scanning technology affords a non-destructive comprehensive, three-dimensional insight into the interior structure of a battery without the need for disassembly. It can make the inner LIBs structures visible through the housing and even batteries already installed in devices can be examined safely and accurately without being removed or opened. This capability is of critical importance for the identification of defects that could lead to battery failure or safety issues, and guide the optimization of LIBs with better safety and performance. This perspective review briefly summarize the comprehensive application of industrial CT in LIBs including battery materials, cells and modules. Finally, we further discuss the challenges and prospects of industrial CT for energy storage.