ADVANCED MATERIALS & PROCESSES | OCTOBER 2025 32 X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy. XPS analysis provided quantitative insights into surface chemistry, revealing a marked increase in oxygen-containing functionalities on corroded samples. Specifically, the C 1s core-level spectrum demonstrated elevated intensities for components associated with C=O (carbonyl) and O=C-O (carboxyl) groups, serving as a clear indicator of severe surface oxidation on the carbon materials. APPLICATIONS FOR BATTERIES AND FUEL CELLS Lithium-ion Batteries. Graphite serves as a cornerstone anode material in lithium-ion batteries due to its intercalating layered structure. Maintaining its structural integrity is paramount for optimal performance. Spectroscopic analysis rigorously demonstrated that oxidative damage, characterized by elevated ID/IG ratios in Raman spectra, directly impeded lithium-ion intercalation and de-intercalation efficiency. This directly correlates with diminished battery performance and cycle life. Fuel Cells. Graphene exhibits considerable promise as a catalyst support in PEMFCs, owing to its exceptional electrical conductivity and chemical stability. Raman spectroscopy results indicated minimal defect formation during the initial stages of fuel cell operation. However, prolonged exposure to acidic environments has induced discernible structural degradation, which would inherently compromise the fuel cell’s long-term efficiency and operational lifespan. CONCLUSION This study unequivocally underscores the critical role of advanced spectroscopy in augmenting the understanding and application of carbonbased materials for diverse energy technologies. By leveraging techniques such as Raman, IR, and XPS, the researchers obtained unprecedentedly detailed insights into the structural and chemical transformations these materials undergo. This enabled the precise elucidation of degradation mechanisms and, crucially, facilitated the development of effective mitigation strategies to enhance overall energy device performance. Progressing forward, the synergistic integration of cuttingedge materials science with powerful analytical technologies like spectroscopy will be indispensable for the realization of truly sustainable and highly efficient energy systems. ~AM&P For more information: Michelle Sestak, Raman and Thin Films Applications Scientist, HORIBA, michelle.sestak@ horiba.com, www.horiba.com.
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