In Situ X‐Ray Absorption Spectroscopy Characterization of V 2 O 5 Xerogel Cathodes upon Lithium Intercalation

Vanadium pentoxide materials prepared through sol‐gel processes act as excellent intercalation hosts for lithium as well as for polyvalent cations. Previous ex situ X‐ray absorption spectroscopy and X‐ray diffraction characterizations have shown that the electrochemical performance of vanadium pentoxide xerogels depends inversely on the long‐range order of the structure. Recently, new ways to prevent the self‐organization of the dry materials, which takes place upon water removal from the starting hydrogel, have been introduced. In the present paper we report on the in situ X‐ray absorption spectroscopy characterization of a spray‐coated (freeze‐dried) xerogel cathode upon lithium intercalation. © 1999 The Electrochemical Society. All rights reserved.