In situ atomic force microscope observing the effect of vinylene carbonate on the formation of solid-electrolyte interphase layer during the initial cycle

We used in situ atomic force microscope to observe the evolution of the solid-electrolyte interphase (SEI) layer on the graphite surface during the initial lithium intercalation process. We found that 1% vinylene carbonate (VC) in the electrolyte can promote the formation of an initial SEI at a higher potential by VC reduction. VC also restrained the reduction of ethylene carbonate (EC) and as a consequence, it can affect the morphology of the SEI formed.