Researchers have made a breakthrough in battery technology that could extend the life of lithium-ion batteries. This could increase battery lifespan by up to 50% in devices from smartphones to electric vehicles.
The key lies in how the battery is first charged. Typically, the initial charge of a lithium-ion battery is a slow process, taking up to 10 hours. This first charge is crucial as it sets the stage for the battery’s future performance and longevity.
Scientists from the Toyota Research Institute have made a new discovery. Charging the battery with unusually high currents during the initial charge can significantly enhance its lifespan. This method extended the battery’s life by 50%. It also reduced the initial charge time to just 20 minutes.
The researchers were able to pinpoint specific changes in the battery’s electrodes that make this performance boost possible. When you charge a battery, lithium ions move to the battery’s negative electrode. Over time, some of these ions become deactivated, leading to a gradual decrease in performance.
Surprisingly, the study found that losing a small amount of lithium during the first charge actually helps preserve the battery’s overall performance. This lost lithium forms a protective layer on the negative electrode, preventing further degradation.
Steven Torrisi, a researcher involved in the study, expressed excitement about the findings, highlighting the potential to make battery manufacturing more efficient.
The study, titled Data-driven analysis of battery formation reveals the role of electrode utilization in extending cycle life, was published in the journal Joule. This discovery could revolutionize how batteries are made and used in the future.
