Breakthrough Solution for Cold-Resistant, High-Energy-Density Batteries
a) Schematic: Metal foil inserted for internal heating and fast heat transfer to electrodes and electrolyte. Self-heating activated by switching off the connection between activation terminal and negative terminal. b) Evolution of cell voltage and temperature during activation at Vact = 0.4 V (inset) and subsequent 1C discharge at −20 °C. Battery temperature increases from −20 °C to 0 °C in ~20 s, enabling 1C discharge to occur at ~0 °C battery core temperature instead of ambient −20 °C. Credit: Nature
While ubiquitous in most environments, lithium-ion batteries have long struggled in extreme cold temperatures, hindering their widespread use in applications like electric cars and aviation. However, a recent breakthrough offers promising solutions to this longstanding challenge, potentially revolutionizing various sectors.
Overcoming Cold Temperature Challenges
Traditionally, lithium-ion batteries exhibit reduced performance in cold climates due to slower charging rates and diminished energy storage capacity. While manageable in typical cold conditions, these limitations become more pronounced at extreme temperatures, presenting hurdles for applications like aviation, especially at high altitudes where temperatures plummet.
Electrolytes are the primary culprit behind lithium-ion batteries‘ cold intolerance. They struggle to maintain optimal performance across a wide temperature range. Conventional electrolytes excel in conducting lithium ions and interacting with anodes at moderate temperatures but falter as temperatures drop, compromising overall battery performance.
The Breakthrough: FAN Electrolyte
Professor Xiulin Fan of Zhejiang University’s pioneering team has developed a groundbreaking solution using a novel electrolyte composed of “small-sized solvents with low solvation energy.” This innovative electrolyte, dubbed FAN, demonstrates exceptional performance across varying temperatures, addressing the longstanding issue of cold-induced battery degradation.
Demonstration batteries utilizing the FAN electrolyte exhibit remarkable ionic conductivity and charging/discharging capabilities across a temperature range spanning from -80°C to 60°C (-112°F to 140°F). Notably, at -70°C (-94°F), FAN outperforms alternative electrolytes by approximately 10,000 times, showcasing its superior cold resilience and efficiency.
Promising Applications and Future Prospects
The implications of this breakthrough extend beyond aviation, potentially impacting industries reliant on energy-dense batteries. Fan’s team asserts the scalability of their technology, hinting at broader applications across different metal-ion battery electrolytes. This versatility bodes well for grid operators seeking efficient energy storage solutions in colder regions, particularly during winter.
The development of the FAN electrolyte marks a significant milestone in the pursuit of cold-resistant, high-energy-density batteries. As research progresses and this technology becomes more accessible, it promises to overcome longstanding barriers, facilitating the widespread adoption of electrification in diverse sectors.
Read the original article on Nature.
Read more: Engineers Develop Ultra-Fast Charging Lithium Battery.
