Increasing cycle-life and energy density of lithium ion batteries requires the development of improved electrolyte additives and a detailed understanding of the stability of electrolyte and cathode electrode components, particularly at high anodic potentials. The fundamental decomposition/degradation mechanisms will be examined by on-line electrochemical mass spectrometry (OEMS), by AC impedance, and by ex-situ ATR-FTIR and NMR. In this presentation, we will discuss the following aspects:

• anodic and cathodic decomposition mechanisms of electrolytes and electrolyte additives;

• quantification of the anodic stability of conductive carbons and of conductive carbon coatings at potentials relevant for high-voltage cathode materials;

• effect of water and hydroxide impurities on carbon and electrolyte stability.