Science meets art in these superimposed scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images of electrodeposited Lithium Cobalt Oxide (LiCoO2), resembling the iconic stairs in M.C. Escher’s Relativity. The crystalline structure, mimicking the captivating staircase, reveals desired features crucial for Li-ion batteries. The stair-like pattern indicates that the material's crystalline orientation exposes Lithium-conducting channels, facilitating efficient ion transport during the battery's charging and discharging cycles. This novel method of growing LiCoO2 directly on current collectors promises higher energy density in both solid and liquid state cells. Controlling the orientation and surface chemistry of these materials opens new pathways for enhancing the performance and longevity of Li-ion batteries, bringing us one step closer to sustainable and efficient energy storage solutions.
