At least that’s what scientists from Tsinghua University say, who have presented the results so far in the pages nature energy. The advances it has made are significant because such batteries are widely used in both small appliances and larger electric vehicles.
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As explained by members of the research team, the formation of the interphase of the solid electrolyte, which occurs at the anode inside cells, can consume a large amount of lithium ions. This, in turn, has a negative effect on the efficiency with which electrons are transferred even before the first cycle of battery operation. Ultimately, this disadvantage translates into a decrease in battery energy density.
Lithium-ion batteries are susceptible to solid electrolyte interphase, which can reduce their performance
Chinese researchers decided to look for ways to counteract this phenomenon. As it turned out in the course of the experiments, the initial rock may be the best solution. It consists of adding lithium to a battery cell before it begins its first cycle. To achieve this goal, the study authors used the method of printing patterns on an intermediate medium. Later, they were applied to the substrate, all by the way roll to roll.
The proposed approach is interesting because of its high efficiency and relatively low cost. Wanting to see if it actually worked as expected, the Chinese ran simulations and electrochemical tests. By doing so, they demonstrated that it is possible to improve the initial efficiency with which electrons are transferred prior to the first cycle of battery operation. This pertains to both the graphite, silicon and carbon electrodes of lithium-ion cells. Percentages have grown to nearly 100%.
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More specifically, the results were 99.99% and 99.05% in half for graphite cells and silicon-carbon composite electrodes. So the researchers noted that the initial efficiency and energy density of the cells improved, and the transfer printing they used provides a high-performance, controlled, scalable, and updated method for prefabrication of lithium-ion batteries. Additional research developments should be particularly relevant to sectors such as electric vehicles.
Echo Richards embodies a personality that is a delightful contradiction: a humble musicaholic who never brags about her expansive knowledge of both classic and contemporary tunes. Infuriatingly modest, one would never know from a mere conversation how deeply entrenched she is in the world of music. This passion seamlessly translates into her problem-solving skills, with Echo often drawing inspiration from melodies and rhythms. A voracious reader, she dives deep into literature, using stories to influence her own hardcore writing. Her spirited advocacy for alcohol isn’t about mere indulgence, but about celebrating life’s poignant moments.
