Progress in the field of Na‐based batteries strongly relies on the development of new advanced materials. However, one of the main challenges of implementing new electrode materials is the understanding of their mechanisms (sodiation/desodiation) du...
Progress in the field of Na‐based batteries strongly relies on the development of new advanced materials. However, one of the main challenges of implementing new electrode materials is the understanding of their mechanisms (sodiation/desodiation) during electrochemical cycling. Operando studies provide extremely valuable insights into structural and chemical changes within different battery components during battery operation. The present review offers a critical summary of the operando X‐ray based characterization techniques used to examine the structural and chemical transformations of the active materials in Na‐ion, Na‐air and Na‐sulfur batteries during (de)sodiation. These methods provide structural and electronic information through diffraction, scattering, absorption and imaging or through a combination of these X‐ray‐based techniques. Challenges associated with cell design and data processing are also addressed herein. In addition, the present review provides a perspective on the future opportunities for these powerful techniques.
Caught in the act: Operando studies provide extremely valuable insights for understanding (de)sodiation mechanisms during electrochemical cycling. We offer a critical summary of the operando X‐ray based characterization techniques that have been applied to Na‐ion, Na‐air, and Na‐sulfur batteries. The review also covers cell design, data processing, and future opportunities to give a comprehensive overview of operando X‐ray‐based techniques in Na battery applications.