Researchers at the U.S. Department of Energy's Argonne National Laboratory have made significant strides in understanding lithium-ion battery degradation, particularly focusing on the self-discharge phenomenon that shortens battery life.
Key findings include:
Self-discharge Mechanism: Self-discharge occurs due to chemical reactions that consume battery materials, leading to performance loss.
Research Collaboration: A multi-institution team validated a cathode hydrogenation mechanism as a primary cause of self-discharge, bridging a critical knowledge gap.
Efficiency Metrics: Improvements in cathode materials can enhance battery stability and reduce self-discharge rates, potentially extending battery lifespan significantly.
Advanced Facilities: The research utilized the Advanced Photon Source (APS) for high-energy X-ray studies, which provided insights at the atomic level.
Future Upgrades: The APS is undergoing an upgrade set to increase X-ray beam brightness by up to 500 times, enhancing future research capabilities.
This research is pivotal for the development of more efficient, longer-lasting batteries, crucial for the widespread adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy technologies.