Batteries begin to discharge the moment we start using them, and even before. Their store of energy gradually reduces, until we have to recharge them, or recycle their materials. This degradation, also called self-discharge, inflates their cost per useful operating hour. An international team coordinated by Kaunas University of Technology in Lithuania, reports a new factor causing degradation in lithium-ion batteries.
The New Factor Causing Degradation in Lithium-Ion Batteries
Scientists have traditionally believed that battery self-discharge was due to lithium-ions in the electrolyte gradually dispersing to the cathode. Battery users generally accepted this battery degradation as a fact of life. But now we have a new factor causing degradation, and a new line of reasoning to tackle it.
“Our study has shown that it is the diffusion of protons (hydrogen ions) that is causing a battery’s self-discharge. This suggests it is possible to propose ways to extend the life of the battery by reducing self-discharge.”
Now we already know, from another source, that lithium-cobalt oxides in lithium-ion battery cathodes can release hydrogen gas, in a chemical process similar to splitting water. And this in turn suggests that this phenomenon could change the composition of the lithium-cobalt oxide.
Possible New Lines of Research in Terms of This
Arturas Vailionis is a visiting professor from Stanford University, and spokesperson for the Kaunas University team. He describes two of these opportunities as adding supplements to the electrolyte, and coating the cathode to control the reaction.
Vailionis regards this new factor causing degradation as significant, because this depletion shortens both cyclic and calendar battery life. And this in turn has a negative economic and environmental impact too.
Eliminating lithium-ion battery self-discharge would have many advantages for smartphone, laptop, and other device users. They could use their devices for longer before recharging them, and that would be a great thing in a world where we depend on time and technology.
More Information
Electric Car Battery Degradation Slower Now
Phenomenon of Battery Self-Discharge & Why
Preview Image: The Electrolysis of Water
Our Sources
https://en.ktu.edu/news/research-reveals-unseen-factors-behind-lithium-ion-battery-degradation/
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2024/11/241113123528.htm
