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How to Troubleshoot A Lithium-ion Battery If It Is Not Charging

lifepo4-Rechargeable-battery

Introduction

Lithium-ion batteries: the powerhouse behind our mobile world and increasingly, our eco-friendly vehicles. These batteries are critical for the functionality of daily devices and systems across a spectrum of industries, from consumer electronics to large-scale energy storage. Their reliability and efficiency make them indispensable in modern technology. However, like any technology, they are not without their faults, particularly when it comes to charging issues. Such problems can not only cause inconvenience but also potentially shorten the lifespan of the battery and the device it powers.
This guide aims to dissect the common challenges associated with lithium-ion batteries, particularly focusing on charging issues that users may encounter. By understanding these problems and knowing how to troubleshoot them effectively, users can enhance their device’s performance and extend battery life.

battery-not-charged

Identifying Charging Problems

Unresponsive Battery
When your lithium-ion battery fails to show any signs of charging—no LEDs light up, and no power seems to be reaching the device—it can be quite baffling. This scenario often points to a battery that might be in a deep discharge state where the voltage has fallen below a safe level, making it unresponsive to standard charging methods. Another common cause could be a failure in the battery’s internal circuitry, which can happen after prolonged use or exposure to adverse conditions.
Slow Charging
Experiencing slow charging can disrupt your day, especially when you depend on your device for critical tasks. Several factors can contribute to this issue:
  • Inadequate power supply: Using a charger that does not match the power requirements of the battery can lead to slow charging rates.
  • Degraded charging cable: Over time, cables can fray, bend, or accumulate dust and dirt at the connections, increasing electrical resistance.
  • Environmental factors: Charging in extreme temperatures, either too hot or too cold, can affect the charging speed and overall battery health.
Reduced Battery Life After Charging
If you notice that your battery’s life depletes faster than usual after a full charge, this could be a sign of aging cells or a calibration issue. Lithium-ion batteries gradually lose their capacity to hold a charge after many cycles of use, which is natural but can be accelerated by factors such as:
  • Frequent overcharging: Keeping the battery at 100% charge for prolonged periods can stress the cells and diminish their lifespan.
  • High discharge rates: Devices that draw a lot of power can strain the battery, causing it to wear out more quickly.
Each of these issues not only impacts the efficiency of your battery but also the usability of your device. Identifying the exact problem is the first step towards a solution.

Steps to Troubleshoot Charging Issues

Inspect Charger and Cables
One of the first steps in troubleshooting a charging problem is to inspect the charger and cables. Often, the issue is as simple as a damaged or incompatible charger:
  • Check for physical damage: Look for visible signs of wear, such as frayed cables, bent connectors, or exposed wires. These can significantly impact the charging capacity.
  • Ensure compatibility: Verify that the charger and cable are compatible with your device. Using a charger or cable that delivers a different voltage or current than your device requires can lead to slow charging or no charging at all.
  • Test with an alternative charger: If possible, try charging with a different charger and cable that are known to work properly to determine if the issue lies with the original charger or the battery itself.
Clean Battery Contacts
Over time, battery contacts may accumulate dust, dirt, or corrosion, which can inhibit the flow of electricity from the charger to the battery:
  • Turn off the device and remove the battery if possible. Ensure all components are disconnected from any power source.
  • Use a clean, dry cloth: Gently wipe the contacts. Avoid using any abrasive materials that might damage the contacts.
  • For stubborn residues, use isopropyl alcohol: Dampen a cloth with isopropyl alcohol and clean the contacts gently. Allow them to dry completely before reconnecting the battery.
Software and Firmware Updates
Outdated software or firmware can also cause charging issues as they might not manage the battery efficiently:
  • Check for updates: Visit the device manufacturer’s website or use their dedicated software update tool to check for and apply any available updates.
  • Follow proper update procedures: Ensure your device is connected to a reliable power source during the update to prevent interruptions that could corrupt the device’s software.
Battery Reset Methods
Sometimes, simply resetting the battery can resolve charging issues by recalibrating the battery management system:
  • Consult your device’s user manual for specific instructions: Some devices have a battery reset button or a specific procedure for battery recalibration.
  • Use device settings where available: Many modern devices include a battery recalibration tool in their settings that can help reset the battery’s charge cycle.
Identifying and resolving these issues can often restore normal battery function and extend the life of your device.

When to Seek Professional Help

Persistent Charging Issues
If the charging issues continue despite your troubleshooting efforts, it might be time to seek professional help. Some battery problems can be symptomatic of deeper electrical or hardware issues that require expert diagnosis and repair:
  • Contact authorized service centers: It’s advisable to contact a professional service that is authorized by your device’s manufacturer. These centers have the necessary tools and expertise to diagnose and fix issues without risking further damage.
  • Look for warranty coverage: Check if your device or battery is still under warranty. Many manufacturers offer free repairs or replacements if the issue falls within the warranty period.
Battery Replacement Recommendations
In some cases, the battery itself may need to be replaced. Signs that suggest a battery replacement might be necessary include:
  • Swelling or deformation of the battery: This can indicate a safety hazard and such batteries should be replaced immediately.
  • Significant decrease in runtime even after recalibration: If your battery doesn’t hold a charge as it used to, and all other factors have been checked, replacement might be the only solution.
  • Old age: Lithium-ion batteries typically have a lifespan of 2-3 years or around 300 to 500 charge cycles. If your battery is older, its ability to hold a charge may be significantly reduced.
Conclusion
Troubleshooting lithium-ion battery issues requires a methodical approach to identify and resolve the common problems associated with charging. While many issues can be resolved with basic troubleshooting, some situations require professional intervention or even a battery replacement to ensure safety and optimal performance.
battery-test-voltage
About Himax Electronics
Before concluding, let’s highlight Himax Electronics’ commitment to quality and innovation. As a leading provider of battery solutions in the B2B market, Himax Electronics offers an extensive range of battery technologies, including advanced lithium-ion options. Our focus on developing cutting-edge battery management systems and sustainable manufacturing practices ensures that our clients receive products that not only meet but exceed industry standards. For those needing specialized battery solutions, Himax Electronics provides robust support and expert advice to ensure your energy needs are met with the highest level of expertise and care.
This guide aims to arm you with the knowledge to handle common lithium-ion battery(LI-ION BATTERY) issues, ensuring that your devices continue to function efficiently and safely. For more detailed support and customized solutions, consider reaching out to Himax Electronics, where innovation meets reliability in battery technology.
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Why li ion battery

Why Choose Lithium-Ion Batteries? Understanding Their Dominance in Modern Technology

Introduction

In the landscape of modern technology, lithium-ion battery stands out as the powerhouse behind much of our portable and even stationary technology. From smartphones and laptops to electric vehicles and renewable energy storage, the versatility and efficiency of lithium-ion technology have made it a cornerstone of energy solutions. This article delves into the myriad reasons why lithium-ion batteries have become the preferred choice across various sectors, highlighting their benefits and the innovations brought forward by Himax Electronics.

The Technological Edge of Lithium-Ion Batteries

High Energy Density

Lithium-ion batteries are favored for their high energy density. This feature allows devices to operate longer between charges, making them ideal for today’s high-use, mobile world. For instance, electric vehicles require batteries that can store a lot of energy to increase their driving range before needing a recharge, something lithium-ion technology facilitates more efficiently than other battery types.

Longevity

Unlike other battery technologies that suffer from rapid degradation, lithium-ion battery can endure thousands of charge-discharge cycles before their capacity falls significantly. This longevity is critical not only for consumer electronics but also for applications like backup power systems and electric vehicles, where frequent battery replacements are not practical.

Fast Charging

Another significant advantage of lithium-ion batteries is their capability to support fast charging. This is crucial in a world that values speed and efficiency, enabling users to quickly recharge their devices and vehicles in a fraction of the time it takes other battery technologies.

 

Lithium-ion batteries

Environmental and Economic Benefits

Reduced Environmental Impact

Lithium-ion battery plays a substantial role in driving the adoption of green technologies. Their ability to efficiently store renewable energy contributes significantly to reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Furthermore, advancements in recycling technologies have made it possible to reclaim and reuse many of the materials used in these batteries, mitigating environmental impacts.

Cost-Effectiveness

As production technologies mature and scale, the cost of lithium-ion batteries continues to decline. This trend enhances their economic viability across a broad spectrum of industries, accelerating the transition to energy solutions that are both sustainable and affordable.

Versatile Applications

Consumer Electronics

In consumer electronics, lithium-ion batteries have enabled the development of lighter, thinner, and more portable devices without sacrificing performance. They are the power source of choice for most smartphones, laptops, and wearable technologies due to their efficiency and compact form factor.

Electric Vehicles

In the automotive sector, lithium-ion batteries are critical for the success of electric vehicles (EVs). They provide a favorable balance of weight, range, and power, which are essential for making EVs a practical alternative to gasoline-powered vehicles.

Energy Storage Systems

For renewable energy systems, lithium-ion batteries offer solutions for storing energy generated from solar and wind sources. By smoothing out the supply of electricity, they help overcome the intermittency issues commonly associated with these renewable resources.

 

Himax Electronics: Pioneering Advances in Lithium-Ion Technology

At Himax Electronics, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of lithium-ion battery technology. Our research and development efforts focus on enhancing the safety, efficiency, and durability of our batteries.

Innovative Battery Management Systems (BMS)

Our sophisticated BMS technology ensures optimal performance and longevity by precisely managing the charge and discharge processes and protecting the battery cells from conditions that could lead to damage or inefficiency.

Sustainability Initiatives

Himax Electronics is dedicated to sustainability, actively working on reducing the environmental footprint of our products through advanced manufacturing processes and participating in global recycling initiatives.

Conclusion

Lithium-ion batteries represent more than just a technological advancement; they are a key enabler of modern mobile and sustainable technologies. With companies like Himax Electronics at the forefront of battery innovation, the potential for these batteries to power our future is not only promising—it’s already happening. For more information on how our battery solutions can power your next project, visit our website or contact us today.

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Why do li ion batteries swell

high quality lithium ion batteries

Understanding Why Lithium-Ion Batteries Swell: Causes, Prevention, and Himax Electronics’ Solutions

Lithium-ion batteries are pivotal in powering a vast array of devices from smartphones to electric vehicles. However, users often encounter a common issue—battery swelling, which can compromise device functionality and safety. This article delves into the reasons behind lithium-ion battery swelling, explores preventive measures, and showcases how Himax Electronics is pioneering solutions to enhance battery safety.
battery swell
What Causes Lithium-Ion Batteries to Swell?
  1. Chemical Expansion:
    1. Lithium-ion batteries function through the movement of lithium ions between the anode and cathode. During charge cycles, lithium ions intercalate into the anode, which can cause physical expansion. Similarly, cathode materials can undergo changes leading to volume expansion during battery discharge.
  2. Gas Generation:
    1. Battery swelling often results from gases generated within the cell. These gases form due to the decomposition of electrolytes or from moisture reacting with the battery’s electrolyte and electrode materials. This is more prevalent if the battery is exposed to improper charging techniques or environmental conditions that facilitate breakdown.
  3. Thermal Runaway:
    1. Excessive heat is a catalyst for chemical reactions inside the battery that contribute to gas generation. Heat can be produced from overcharging, high external temperatures, or internal faults within the battery, leading to a dangerous cycle known as thermal runaway.
Preventive Measures and Maintenance Tips
  1. Proper Charging Practices:
    1. Using a compatible charger and adhering to manufacturer-specified charging limits can prevent overcharging, one of the primary causes of swelling.
    2. Avoid leaving devices charging overnight and ensure that charging environments are cool and ventilated.
  2. Regular Monitoring and Maintenance:
    1. Regularly inspect batteries for signs of damage or swelling. Early detection can prevent further damage or potential hazards.
    2. Replace batteries at signs of wear or after the recommended number of charge cycles has been reached.
  3. Storage Conditions:
    1. Store lithium-ion batteries in cool, dry places to prevent exposure to conditions that could trigger swelling. Avoid temperature extremes, both hot and cold.
How Himax Electronics Enhances Battery Safety
At Himax Electronics, we are committed to advancing battery technology with a focus on safety and durability. Here’s how we address the issue of lithium-ion battery swelling:
  1. Advanced Battery Management Systems (BMS):
    1. Our state-of-the-art BMS technology closely monitors and controls the battery’s voltage, current, and temperature, ensuring that each cell within a battery pack operates within safe parameters. This system helps in mitigating the risks associated with overcharging and thermal runaway.
  2. High-Quality Material Selection:
    1. Himax Electronics uses superior electrode and electrolyte materials that minimize degenerative reactions which can lead to gas formation. Our materials are rigorously tested to ensure they meet the highest standards of safety and performance.
  3. Innovative Design for Longevity:
    1. Our batteries are designed with structural reinforcements that accommodate natural expansion without compromising the integrity of the battery. This design innovation significantly reduces the risk of swelling and extends the battery’s operational life.
Lithium battery thermal runaway
Conclusion
Understanding the causes and preventive measures of lithium-ion battery(LI-ION BATTERY) swelling is essential for maintaining the safety and longevity of your devices. By adopting proper care and safety practices, users can significantly reduce the risk of swelling. At Himax Electronics, we continue to lead the industry in safe battery technology, offering products that are not only efficient but also align with the highest safety standards. For more information about our products and how we can assist in providing safe, reliable battery solutions, visit our website or contact our support team.
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Lithium battery recycling

Since the 1990s, the use of lithium battery has become more and more widespread.

Today, lithium-ion batteries are almost everywhere, from laptops, mobile phones to electric vehicles and energy storage devices. As a result, the number of discarded lithium-ion batteries has increased at an alarming rate. Some studies predict that by 2030, the global scrapped lithium-ion batteries will reach more than 11 million tons. At present, the recycling rate of waste lithium-ion batteries in the United States is less than 5%. If this problem cannot be effectively solved, it will have adverse effects on both the health of the people and the natural ecological environment.

li-ion-battery

Although the prospects are good, the current volume of scrapped lithium batteries is relatively “bleak”. Scrapped power batteries include not only ternary batteries, but also lithium iron phosphate batteries, lithium manganese oxide batteries, etc. Among them, the more popular ones are only the relatively high-value ternary batteries.

The service life of lithium batteries is generally about 8 years, and the lithium battery recycling market has not yet ushered in large-scale demand. At present, in the lithium battery recycling market, the main source of scrapped power batteries is still new energy vehicles before 2015, most of which are service vehicles such as buses and taxis, which is far from meeting the available production capacity.

At the same time, industry analysts pointed out that after the power batteries reach the service life, most of the “retired” lithium batteries have flowed into the stage of cascade utilization.

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Are li-ion batteries allowed on planes

Introduction

Travelers often face confusion about what items they can carry on airplanes, especially when it comes to electronic devices and the batteries that power them. Li-ion batteries, commonly used in laptops, smartphones, and other portable electronics, are subject to specific airline regulations due to their potential safety risks. This article will clarify these regulations and provide guidance on how to safely travel with these batteries.

Understanding Lithium-Ion Batteries and Air Travel Safety

Li-ion batteries are favored for their high energy density and long lifespan, but these advantages also come with safety challenges. The main risk associated with these batteries is thermal runaway, a chain reaction leading to a fire if the battery overheats. This has led aviation authorities worldwide to implement strict guidelines on how these batteries should be carried on commercial flights.

Regulatory Overview: FAA and IATA Guidelines

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) provide guidelines to ensure the safety of air travel:

  1. Carry-On vs. Checked Baggage:
  • Carry-On: Passengers are advised to carry lithium-ion batteries in their carry-on luggage. This allows any potential problems, such as a fire, to be addressed more quickly by the crew.
  • Checked Baggage: Batteries installed in devices can be checked, provided the device is completely powered off and protected from accidental activation or damage. Loose batteries must be in carry-on luggage.
  1. Capacity Restrictions:
  • Batteries are usually measured in Watt-hours (Wh). Those carrying batteries must be aware of the limits:
  • Under 100Wh: Allowed in carry-on without any restrictions.
  • Between 100Wh and 160Wh: Can be carried with airline approval, usually limited to two spare batteries per passenger.
  • Above 160Wh: Generally not allowed without specific cargo arrangements.

Tips for Packing and Carrying Lithium-Ion Batteries

To ensure safety and compliance, travelers should:

  • Use original packaging or protective cases to prevent short circuits.
  • Tape over exposed terminals or place each battery in a separate plastic bag.
  • Avoid carrying damaged or recalled batteries.
  • Keep spare batteries in an easily accessible location in case they need to be inspected by security or used in an emergency.

Traveling with Battery-Powered Equipment

When traveling with equipment like cameras, laptops, or medical devices powered by lithium-ion batteries:

  • Ensure the device is turned off and, if possible, keep it in a protective case.
  • If your device needs to remain on for medical reasons, get pre-approval from the airline and carry documentation to verify the necessity.

Himax Electronics: Commitment to Safety and Compliance

At Himax Electronics, we understand the importance of safety, especially when it comes to products that are used in diverse environments, including air travel. Our lithium-ion batteries are designed with built-in safety features that prevent overcharging, overheating, and short circuits, making them ideal for travel:

  • Advanced BMS Technology: Our batteries are equipped with state-of-the-art Battery Management Systems that actively monitor and manage battery health.
  • Rigorous Testing: All Himax batteries undergo extensive safety testing to meet international standards for air travel safety.
  • Quality Assurance: We ensure that our products not only meet but exceed safety standards, providing travelers with reliability and peace of mind.

Conclusion

Understanding the rules for traveling with lithium-ion batteries can make your journey safer and more convenient. By following these guidelines, passengers can ensure that their journey is hazard-free. For those looking for reliable, safe, and compliant batteries, Himax Electronics offers innovative solutions tailored to meet the needs of modern travelers.

For more information on our battery products or for detailed travel tips, visit our website or contact our customer service team.

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How to charge 18650 battery pack with bms

How to Charge an 18650 Battery Pack with a BMS: A Complete Guide

Introduction The 18650 battery pack is a staple in the electronics world, powering everything from laptops to electric vehicles. A key component in maintaining the health and efficiency of these packs is the Battery Management System (BMS). This guide will walk you through the process of safely charging an 18650 battery pack with a BMS, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.

Understanding 18650 Battery Packs and BMS 18650 refers to the size of the batteries: 18mm in diameter and 65mm in length. These lithium-ion cells are popular due to their high capacity and durability. A BMS is crucial as it protects the battery pack against overcharging, deep discharging, and overheating, which can lead to battery failure or hazardous situations.

Preparing to Charge Your Battery Pack Before charging, it’s essential to ensure that your BMS and battery pack are properly configured and intact. Check all connections for security and wear, and ensure the BMS is compatible with your battery pack’s voltage and chemistry.

Step-by-Step Charging Process

  1. Connect the BMS to the Battery Pack: First, securely connect your BMS to your 18650 battery pack. Ensure that the connections between the cells and the BMS are secure and correct according to the BMS manual.
  2. Attach the Charger: Connect your charger to the BMS, not directly to the battery. Make sure the charger’s output matches the specifications recommended for your battery pack to avoid any potential damage.
  3. Begin Charging: Initiate the charging process. The BMS will monitor the state of each cell and ensure that all cells are charged evenly, preventing any cells from overcharging.
  4. Monitoring the Process: Keep an eye on the charging process. Most BMS units will have indicators or interfaces to show the status of the battery cells. It’s crucial to monitor these indicators to ensure everything is charging as expected.
  5. Completing the Charge: Once the battery pack is fully charged, the BMS will stop the charging process automatically. Disconnect the charger from the BMS and then disconnect the BMS from the battery pack.

18650 battery pack

Safety Tips and Best Practices

  • Always charge in a fire-proof area and remain nearby while charging.
  • Never leave the charging battery pack unattended.
  • Regularly inspect your battery pack and BMS for signs of damage or wear.
  • Avoid charging near flammable materials.

Troubleshooting Common Issues If issues arise during charging, such as the BMS indicating an imbalance or a cell not charging, first check connections and ensure that all components are functioning correctly. If problems persist, consult the manufacturer’s documentation or seek professional help.

Why Use a BMS? Using a BMS is essential for safety and efficiency. It extends the life of your battery pack by ensuring each cell is charged correctly and safely, and it can significantly reduce the risk of battery failure.

About Himax Electronics Himax Electronics specializes in advanced battery management solutions, offering state-of-the-art BMS products that enhance both the safety and performance of lithium battery packs. With a focus on innovation and customer satisfaction, Himax Electronics provides tailor-made solutions that meet the specific needs of any project.

Himax Electronics is dedicated to advancing battery technology with sophisticated BMS solutions that ensure safety, reliability, and efficiency. For more information about our products and how we can help with your battery management needs, visit our website or contact our support team.

Conclusion Charging an 18650 battery pack with a BMS is crucial for maintaining battery health and safety. By following these steps and utilizing a reliable BMS like those offered by Himax Electronics, you can ensure that your battery pack performs optimally for a longer period.

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Are 18650 batteries lipo or lifepo4

li-ion-18650

Are 18650 Batteries LiPo or LiFePO4? Understanding Battery Chemistry

The 18650 battery format is popular due to its standardized size and high capacity, making it a favorite in various applications, from laptops and power tools to electric vehicles and renewable energy storage. However, there is often confusion about whether 18650 batteries are made with LiPo or LiFePO4 chemistry. This article clarifies this confusion and discusses how Himax Electronics contributes to providing high-quality battery solutions.

3.7V-18650-battery-cell

What is an 18650 Battery?

The term “18650” refers to the physical dimensions of the battery—18mm in diameter and 65mm in length. This designation does not specify the chemical composition of the battery, which can vary. Common chemistries for 18650 batteries include Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion), Lithium Polymer (LiPo), and Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4).

Distinguish between LiPo and LiFePO4 18650 battery chemistry.

  1. Lithium Polymer (LiPo):
    1. Composition: LiPo batteries use a lithium salt dissolved in a polymer composite.
    2. Characteristics: They are lightweight and can be made in various shapes, which is why they are often used in radio-controlled equipment and portable devices. LiPo batteries provide high discharge rates and a moderate energy density.
    3. Safety: LiPo batteries are more susceptible to physical damage and can present a fire risk if punctured or charged improperly.
  2. Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4):
    1. Composition: LiFePO4 batteries are a type of lithium-ion battery that uses lithium iron phosphate as the cathode material.
    2. Characteristics: LiFePO4 batteries are known for their robust safety profile, long cycle life, and stability. They offer lower energy density than LiPo but excel in safety and longevity.
    3. Safety: LiFePO4 batteries are considered safer than many other lithium batteries due to their thermal and chemical stability.

Are 18650 Batteries Commonly Made with Li-ion or LiFePO4 Chemistry?

While 18650 batteries were traditionally made with lithium-ion chemistries, including variants like LiCoO2 (Lithium Cobalt Oxide), and LiFePO4 chemistries in this size. However, LiFePO4 chemistry in an 18650 format is less common due to its lower energy density, which doesn’t always align with the compact energy storage needs that 18650 batteries typically fulfill. Most LiFePO4 batteries(LIFEPO4 BATTERY) tend to be larger to compensate for their lower energy density.

Choosing the Right Chemistry with Himax Electronics

Himax Electronics provides expertise in determining the best battery chemistry based on your application requirements:
  • Application Assessment: Himax helps evaluate the specific needs of your application, whether it’s high energy density for consumer electronics or stability and longevity for energy storage solutions.
  • Safety and Compliance: Himax ensures that all battery solutions meet rigorous safety and compliance standards, which is particularly important when choosing between LiPo and LiFePO4 chemistries.
  • Custom Solutions: For applications requiring specific energy storage criteria, Himax can develop custom battery solutions that optimize performance, safety, and cost.

18650-battery-cell

Conclusion

Understanding whether an 18650 battery, LiPo, or LiFePO4 involves knowing the specific requirements and limitations of your application. While LiPo may be suitable for high-performance needs, LiFePO4 offers advantages in safety and cycle life, making it ideal for long-term and high-reliability applications. Himax Electronics is dedicated to providing tailored battery solutions that meet the unique needs of each customer, ensuring optimal performance, safety, and reliability.
For more information on selecting the right battery chemistry or to explore Himax Electronics’ range of products and services, visit their website or contact their support team.
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New process makes battery production more eco-friendly

Switching from gas-powered cars to electric vehicles is one way to reduce carbon emissions, but building the lithium-ion battery that power those EVs can be an energy-intensive and polluting process itself. Now researchers at Dalhousie University have developed a manufacturing process that is cheaper and greener.

“Making lithium-ion battery cathode material takes a lot of energy and water, and produces waste. It has the biggest impact on the environment, especially the CO2 footprint of the battery,” says Dr. Mark Obrovac, a professor in Dalhousie University’s Departments of Chemistry and Physics & Atmospheric Science.

li-ion-battery

“We wanted to see if there were more environmentally friendly and sustainable—and less expensive—ways to make these materials.”

Most electric vehicle batteries use lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide (NMC), with the elements mixed in the crystal structure of the cathode. They are typically made by dissolving the elements in water then using the crystals that form when the elements come together as a solid.

That process takes a lot of water—which then has to be treated to clean it—and energy, which is the main source of the cost and carbon footprint of the batteries. Using the Canadian Light Source (CLS) at the University of Saskatchewan, Obrovac and his team investigated whether they could use an all-dry process to get the same results while saving energy, water, and money.

Their work has been published in two papers, in ACS Omega and the Journal of the Electrochemical Society.

“We wanted to see, can you get the same quality if you take dry materials and combine them using simple processes that you’d find in any large-scale factory and heat them up,” he says. “And under what conditions can you do that to get commercial-grade material while cutting out the water and the waste?”

Cathodes made from dry materials are sometimes not as homogeneous as those made in water, so the team tried a variety of methods using different oxides and heating regimes under different temperatures and pressures to determine what worked best.

They used the Brockhouse beamline at CLS to peer inside the furnace as they tried these different experiments, to see exactly what was happening during the process. “What we found was important information about how we can improve the process so that what comes out is a higher-grade NMC-type cathode material,” says Obrovac.

The highest quality cathodes available now are made from single crystals with particles about 5 microns in diameter. By carefully adjusting their starting materials and furnace conditions, Obrovac’s team was able to reproduce those qualities using an all-dry process, making cathode materials comparable to the best ones on the market today.

Obrovac has partnered with the Nova Scotia-based battery company NOVONIX, which is using all-dry processes to produce cathode materials at the company’s pilot-scale facility in Dartmouth. That facility is capable of producing 10 tonnes per annum of cathode material, with methods that offer an estimated 30% lower capital costs than the conventional (wet) methods, 50% lower operating costs, and uses 25% less energy, while requiring no process water, and generating zero waste.

“These are big numbers, it’s very much a step-change in the production of these battery materials,” says Obrovac. “It should result in lower-cost batteries overall with a substantially lower global warming footprint.”

More information: Mohammad H. Tahmasebi et al, New Insights into the All-Dry Synthesis of NMC622 Cathodes Using a Single-Phase Rock Salt Oxide Precursor, ACS Omega (2023). DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c08702

Ido Ben-Barak et al, All-Dry Synthesis of NMC from [Ni,Mn,Co]3O4 Spinel Precursors, Journal of The Electrochemical Society (2024). DOI: 10.1149/1945-7111/ad3aa9

Journal information: Journal of The Electrochemical Society  , ACS Omega

Provided by Canadian Light Source

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4680 Lithium Ion Battery Cell 

Tesla’s 4680 lithium-ion battery refers to a battery with a diameter of 46 mm and a height of 80 mm. The battery currently uses the ternary lithium battery technology route, and it is not ruled out that lithium iron phosphate batteries will be launched in the future. Its shape is cylindrical, which is different from the mainstream square battery.

 

Its main features and advantages and disadvantages are as follows:

 

High energy density: Tesla’s battery uses a larger battery size and a new design to provide higher energy density, making the battery capacity larger, thereby extending the range of electric vehicles.

 

Improved heat dissipation performance: The 4680 battery adopts an irregular surface design to improve the heat dissipation effect, making the battery temperature rise more gentle during high-power discharge, and improving the battery’s service life and safety.

 

Higher charging rate: The 4680 battery has a higher charging rate, can charge faster, and shortens the charging time.

 

Reduce costs: The 4680 battery uses a new production process, including the use of fewer parts and a more efficient production line, which is expected to reduce production costs and drive down the price of electric vehicles.

Future Batteries（Article illustrations）

 

Disadvantages of the 4680 lithium battery:

 

Technology novelty: As it is a brand-new battery design, the technology of the 4680 lithium-ion battery is relatively new, and there may be technical immaturity and reliability risks.

 

Production scale and supply chain: Large-scale production of 4680 lithium-ion batteries may require adjustments to Tesla’s production equipment and supply chain, and there may be challenges such as insufficient supply in the short term.

 

Cost and investment: Although the 4680 lithium-ion battery is expected to reduce production costs, new production processes and equipment may require a large investment.

 

At present, the 4680 lithium battery is not mature enough in terms of technology, especially the pole-free design requires high welding technology. In addition, the 4680 lithium battery also faces challenges in heat dissipation because they are too large and are not as good as small-sized cylindrical or sheet cells in radial heat dissipation.

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New strategy improves performance of spent high-voltage lithium cobalt oxide batteries

In a study published in Advanced Materials, a research team led by Prof. Zhang Yunxia from the Hefei Institutes of Physical Science of the Chinese Academy of Sciences has developed an integrated bulk and surface commodification strategy to upgrade spent lithium cobalt oxide (S-LCO) batteries to operate at high voltages.

As the demand for high energy density storage devices grows, there’s a need to find sustainable ways to upgrade old LiCoO2 (LCO) batteries into more stable, high-voltage cathode materials.

In this study, the researchers developed a simple and effective method for upgrading LCO batteries. They used a combination of wet chemical treatment, heating, and a special phosphorus coating technique.

This process involved adding extra lithium, applying a uniform coating of lithium phosphate/cobalt phosphide (LPO/CP) to the surface, and incorporating manganese into the bulk material, along with a gradient of phosphorus near the surface. These modifications were all achieved simultaneously, resulting in significantly improved battery performance.

The result of these modifications is an improved LCO cathode, named MP-LCO@LPO/CP, which shows significantly improved electrochemical performance. The improved cathode exhibits high specific capacity and excellent cycling stability.

The researchers also investigated why the upgraded cathode performs so well at high voltages. They found that the modifications improve both structural stability and electrochemical properties, resulting in improved battery performance.

“This method is simple and easy to scale up, so it could also be used to recycle other waste cathode materials. This approach has great potential for the sustainable development of the lithium-ion battery industry,” said Prof. Zhang.

lithium ion battery pack

More information: Zhenzhen Liu et al, Hybrid Surface Modification and Bulk Doping Enable Spent LiCoO2 Cathodes for High‐Voltage Operation, Advanced Materials (2024). DOI: 10.1002/adma.202404188

Journal information: Advanced Materials

Provided by Chinese Academy of Sciences