A discovery in lithium-ion batteries might be the next step to lifetime capacity

Scientists of the University of Cambridge found in a study surprising lithium-ion movement within a battery. The results have the potential to mark a new era, as researchers believe these recent advancements might generate batteries with longer ranges and quicker charging periods, so the university in n In a press release. 

Lithium is a chemical component that is essential for how batteries work. When a battery is about to run out, it is possible to notice a saturation of lithium on the surface and a lack of active particles in the core — this absence of lithium results in a decrease in battery capacity. 

The research conducted by the British university attempted to monitor the flow of lithium ions to understand that issue. It identified a unique and non-uniform pattern of ion particles during the battery operation. By analyzing the interactions between the ions, scientists now comprehend why cathode materials lose ten percent of their capacity after the first discharge. 

The outcome of that study might affect many industries in the process. For instance, nickel-rich lithium oxides are common in electric car batteries. However, the transport of lithium ions during operating conditions is still not entirely known, which limits the batteries’ maximum performance. For that reason, the researchers from Cambridge now aim to upgrade the lifetime of such batteries for the future.  

German researchers are on track for a strong and stable lithium-metal battery

Researchers at the Karlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT) and the Helmholtz Institut Ulm in Germany have developed a lithium-metal battery with a high energy density … Continued