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O1s and S2p XPS spectra of the graphite electrode after the 1st discharge and the schematic representation of the solid electrolyte interface (SEI) layers formed in an SPE-based graphite half-cell.

It is often stated that formation of a functional solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) in sodium ion batteries is hampered by the higher solubility of SEI components such as sodium salts in comparison to the lithium analogues. In order to investigate these phenomena, SEI formation and functionality, as well as cell self-discharge, are studied for the sodium ion system with comparative experiments on the equivalent lithium ion system. By conducting a set of experiments on carbonaceous anodes, the impact of SEI dissolution is tested. The results show that the SEI layer in sodium ion cells is inferior to that in lithium ion counterparts with regards to self-discharge; sodium cells show a loss in capacity at a dramatic rate as compared to the lithium counterparts when they are stored at sodiated and lithiated states, respectively, for a long time with no external applied current or potential. Also, synchrotron-based hard X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy measurements indicate that the major factor leading to increased self-discharge is dissolution of significant parts of the sodium-based SEI. Furthermore, the influence of fluoroethylene carbonate (FEC) electrolyte additive on self-discharge is tested as part of the work.

This review addresses concepts, approaches, tools, and outcomes of multiscale modeling used to design and optimize the current and next generation rechargeable battery cells. Different kinds of multiscale models are discussed and demystified with a particular emphasis on methodological aspects. The outcome is compared both to results of other modeling strategies as well as to the vast pool of experimental data available. Finally, the main challenges remaining and future developments are discussed.