I am fabricating cathodes (LiMn2O4) and testing them v/s lithium and graphite anode with LiPF6 electrolyte using Swagelok cell setup. Before running galvanostatic current with potential limitation (GCPL) test, I would like to know if there is any preconditioning method that needs to be done (eg. SEI formation) before testing the battery for its electrochemical performance.
If possible, please mention your sources.
Thank you.
I did run the tests.
For Li anode, the Voc (open circuit potential) was between 2.5V-3.3V, and for carbon anode between 0.3V-0.5V.
Over the time, as expected, Voc changed, not necessarily decreased every time. It fluctuated, meaning, it increased and decreased (by low margin). So before running GCPL test, I gave relax command (time=60min) to let Voc settle down with a much stable voltage.
I ran all the tests in the ambient air but assembled the cell in controlled atmosphere argon glove box.
In the end, I didn't get any satisfactory result from 8 cathodes that I fabricated. By satisfactory, I meant I didn't get a good comparative result from electrochemical characterisation (GCPL test), although I got a decent result from physical characterization (SEM and XRD).
So thought of asking if there is any preconditioning step (not sure about the technical term) that the battery manufacturing company follows before testing their product or selling it in the market.
