High-performance secondary batteries, also called rechargeable or storage batteries, are a key component of electric automobiles, power storage for renewable energies, load levellers of electric power lines, base stations for mobile phones, and emergency power supply in hospitals, in addition to having application in energy security and realization of a low-carbon and resilient society. A detailed understanding of the physics and chemistry that occur in secondary batteries is required for developing next-generation secondary batteries with improved performance. Among various types of secondary batteries, lithium-ion batteries are most widely used because of their high energy density, small memory effect, and low self-discharge rate. This book introduces lithium-ion batteries, with an emphasis on their overview, roadmaps, and simulations. It also provides extensive descriptions of ion beam analysis and prospects for in situ diagnostics of lithium-ion batteries. The chapters are written by specialists in cutting-edge research on lithium-ion batteries and related subjects. The book will be a great reference for advanced undergraduate- and graduate-level students, researchers, and engineers in electrochemistry, nanotechnology, and diagnostic methods and instruments.

The unfortunate and serious accident at the nuclear power plants in Fukushima, Japan caused by the earthquake and tsunami in March 2011 dealt Japan a serious blow. Japan was nearly deprived of electric power when in response to the accident all nuclear reactors in Japan were shut down. This shortage further accelerated the introduction of renewable energies. This book surveys the new materials and approaches needed to use nanotechnology to introduce the next generation of advanced lithium batteries, currently the most promising energy storage devices available. It provides an overview of nanotechnology for lithium batteries from basic to applied research in selected high technology areas. The book especially focuses on near-term and future advances in these fields. All contributors to this book are expert researchers on lithium batteries.