Observation Examples of Polymers

Separators were removed from commercially available lithium-ion batteries, and their surfaces were observed. The three images are observations of various different types of separator. The magnification and height are consistent in the images. Larger pores were observed in sample 1 than in samples 2 and 3.

Sample 1 was observed while heated. As the temperature increased, it was observed that the fibers swelled, and the pores filled in.