Physical vapour deposition of metallic lithium

A non-academic perspective on the future of lithium-based batteries

In the field of lithium-based batteries, there is often a substantial divide between academic research and industrial market needs. This is in part driven by a lack of peer-reviewed publications from industry. Here we present a non-academic view on applied research in lithium-based batteries to sharpen the focus and help bridge the gap between academic and industrial research. We focus our discussion on key metrics and challenges to be considered when developing new technologies in this industry. We also explore the need to consider various performance aspects in unison when developing a new material/technology. Moreover, we also investigate the suitability of supply chains, sustainability of materials and the impact on system-level cost as factors that need to be accounted for when working on new technologies. With these considerations in mind, we then assess the latest developments in the lithium-based battery industry, providing our views on the challenges and prospects of various technologies.

Target preparation for neutron-induced reaction measurements

Neutron-induced reaction measurements, e.g. cross-sections and particle emission yields, require samples, called "targets", with specific properties depending on the reaction being studied and the quantities being measured. The target characteristics influence the results of these measurements and can have a strong impact on the total uncertainty of neutron-induced reaction data, which are important for industry and in research. This paper gives an overview of the main techniques applied in the target preparation laboratory at JRC-Geel for production and characterization of targets for neutron-induced reaction data measurements. The use of different targets is demonstrated with a few examples of total and reaction cross-section as well as nuclear fission experiments. In addition, on-going investigations and technical developments are presented.