We present a precision analysis of the 136 Xe two-neutrino ββ electron spectrum above 0.8 MeV, based on highstatistics data obtained with the KamLAND-Zen experiment. An improved formalism for the two-neutrino ββ rate allows us to measure the ratio of the leading and subleading 2νββ nuclear matrix elements (NMEs), ξ 2ν 31 ¼ −0.26 þ0.31 −0.25. Theoretical predictions from the nuclear shell model and the majority of the quasiparticle random-phase approximation (QRPA) calculations are consistent with the experimental limit. However, part of the ξ 2ν 31 range allowed by the QRPA is excluded by the present measurement at the 90% confidence level. Our analysis reveals that predicted ξ 2ν 31 values are sensitive to the quenching of NMEs and the competing contributions from low-and high-energy states in the intermediate nucleus. Because these aspects are also at play in neutrinoless ββ decay, ξ 2ν 31 provides new insights toward reliable neutrinoless ββ NMEs.

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In recent years, all-solid-state batteries (ASSBs) have been attracting attention as the next generation batteries for electric vehicles, energy storage systems, etc. Despite the growing interest, there are still many challenges faced in the commercial use of ASSBs. One of the biggest issues is the internal resistance, especially generated at the interface between solid electrolyte and electrode. The internal resistance at the interface limits the charge-discharge cycling performances. In order to solve this issue, it is necessary to examine the chemical and physical interactions at the interface. In this study, we have performed a detailed characterization of a LiPON/LiCoO2 interface using time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy, and low-energy inverse photoelectron spectroscopy to obtain information on chemical species, chemical compositions, chemical states, and energy band diagrams. These powerful techniques have revealed that an interlayer between LiPON and LiCoO2 was formed due to the temperature rise during the manufacturing process. The temperature rise caused a change of the LiPON network structure and stimulated Co reduction in the LiCoO2 layer near the interface. Energy band diagram analysis suggests that the electron diffusion from LiPON to LiCoO2 may have triggered the reduction of Co. We concluded that the chemical changes that occur at the interface caused an increase in interfacial impedance. Preventing the chemical reduction of Co would be a key to minimize the internal resistance. In this article, the detailed chemical interactions between the LiPON and LiCoO2 layers will be discussed.