Scientists at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory have engineered a lithium-ion battery component that is capable of recharging up to 80% within 10 minutes and sustaining this performance for 1,500 charge cycles. The advancement was realized through the development of a unique electrolyte mixture that improves ion conductivity and is resistant to elevated currents during quick recharging sessions.
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The emergence of electric vehicles (EVs) has been a game-changer in the automotive sector, signifying a transition towards a more sustainable future marked by decreased carbon emissions. However, the widespread adoption of these vehicles has been hindered by limitations such as slow charging rates and limited battery lifespan—factors critical to consumer buy-in.
To address this, scientists at Oak Ridge National Laboratory are pioneering advancements in rapid charging technologies specific to electric vehicles.
An interdisciplinary group of battery researchers has successfully designed a lithium-ion battery substance that can recharge 80% of its full capacity in just 10 minutes and retains this capability across 1,500 charge cycles.
Zhijia Du, a researcher at ORNL, is at the forefront of this innovation. Du spearheaded the team that created new lithium salt formulations combined with carbonate solvents, culminating in an electrolyte that not only enhances ion movement but also remains stable when subjected to the elevated currents typically encountered during rapid charging. This innovative electrolyte formulation was examined using battery pouch cells produced at ORNL’s Battery Manufacturing Facility, demonstrating both safety and dependable cycling characteristics.
Du stated, “The novel electrolyte formulation we developed essentially triples the U.S. Department of Energy’s longevity benchmark for batteries designed for rapid charging.”
Citation: “A Novel High-Performance Electrolyte for Extreme Fast Charging in Pilot Scale Lithium-Ion Pouch Cells,” authored by Dr. Zhijia Du, Dr. Zhenzhen Yang, Dr. Runming Tao, Vadim Shipitsyn, Dr. Xianyang Wu, David C. Robertson, Kelsey M. Livingston, Shae Hagler, James Kwon, Prof. Dr. Lin Ma, Dr. Ira D. Bloom, and Dr. Brian J. Ingram, published on August 13, 2023, in Batteries & Supercaps.
DOI: 10.1002/batt.202300292
Table of Contents
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Fast-Charging Lithium-Ion Battery
What is the key achievement in this battery technology development?
The key achievement is the creation of a lithium-ion battery material that can recharge up to 80% of its capacity in just 10 minutes and maintain this performance over 1,500 charge cycles.
How was this rapid charging capability achieved?
Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory achieved this rapid charging capability by formulating a new electrolyte that enhances ion flow and remains stable even when subjected to high currents during fast charging.
Why is fast charging important for electric vehicles (EVs)?
Fast charging is crucial for EVs because it significantly reduces the time required to charge the vehicle, making them more convenient for users. It addresses one of the primary challenges in EV adoption.
What role does the electrolyte play in this innovation?
The electrolyte is a critical component of this innovation. The researchers developed a unique electrolyte formulation that improves ion conductivity and can withstand the high currents generated during rapid charging, thereby enabling the 80% recharge in 10 minutes.
How does this breakthrough impact the lifespan of fast-charging batteries?
The new electrolyte formulation triples the Department of Energy’s target for the lifespan of extreme-fast-charging batteries, indicating a significant improvement in the durability and longevity of batteries designed for rapid charging.
Where can I find more information about this research?
You can find more information about this research in the scientific paper titled “A Novel High-Performance Electrolyte for Extreme Fast Charging in Pilot Scale Lithium-Ion Pouch Cells,” published in Batteries & Supercaps on August 13, 2023 (DOI: 10.1002/batt.202300292).
More about Fast-Charging Lithium-Ion Battery
- [Read the full research paper](DOI: 10.1002/batt.202300292)
- Oak Ridge National Laboratory
- Batteries & Supercaps Journal
2 comments
oak ridge lab rocks, they are doin great!
electric cars finally gettin the juice they need ⚡