An article published in Nature Communications introduced a method for real-time visualization of lithium plating within battery cells using scanning acoustic microscopy (SAM). This approach addresses lithium plating, a factor that impacts battery performance and lifespan, particularly during fast charging. The study provides insights into the internal dynamics of battery cells during charging cycles.
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Advancements in Lithium-Ion Battery Technology
Developing fast-charging technologies for lithium-ion batteries is essential for advancing electric vehicle (EV) adoption and addressing range concerns. The U.S. Department of Energy has outlined the need for extreme fast-charging (XFC) systems capable of delivering 200 miles of range within 10 minutes. However, achieving this while managing battery aging and maintaining costs below $80/kWh poses significant challenges.
Increasing anode coating thickness can enhance energy density but limits fast charging due to a higher risk of lithium plating. Thinner coatings support faster charging but reduce energy density and increase costs. Balancing these factors is critical for optimizing battery performance.
Real-time detection of lithium plating during charging is also crucial, as conventional methods often lack the spatial and temporal resolution required to study electrochemical effects in larger battery cells.
A Novel Method for Visualizing Lithium Plating Inside Battery
This study introduced a method for visualizing lithium plating within battery cells using SAM. SAM uses ultrasound waves to enable non-destructive imaging of internal battery processes, providing detailed analysis of electrochemical effects in large cells.
The SAM system generates ultrasound waves at a resolution of 75 μm, emitted by a piezoelectric transducer operating at 25 MHz. These waves pass through a coupling medium (distilled water) and interact with the battery cell's internal structures. Reflected and transmitted signals are analyzed to produce real-time images of lithium plating.
Multiple pouch cells were tested under controlled charging conditions to validate the method. Lithium plating was induced locally by applying adhesive dots to anode sheets, which reduced ion transport and created overpotentials. Ultrasound imaging captured these processes, offering insights into the formation and progression of lithium plating. This technique provides valuable data for developing charging protocols to minimize lithium plating and improve battery performance.
Key Findings and Insights
The study examined lithium plating during lithium-ion battery charging cycles. Ultrasound images identified distinct patterns of lithium deposition, correlating with electrochemical data from the cells. Bright spots in the images indicated lithium plating and evolved under specific charging conditions.
The ultrasound imaging method visualized lithium plating without the need for costly and complex neutron-based techniques. Achieving a spatial resolution of 75 μm in real time marks an advancement in battery diagnostics, enabling early detection of issues affecting performance and lifespan.
The study identified a relationship between ultrasound imaging results and the electrochemical behavior of lithium-ion battery cells. Bright spots in the images were observed at specific voltage thresholds during charging, indicating conditions that favor lithium plating.
The findings demonstrate the SAM method's utility as a diagnostic tool for analyzing battery dynamics. Its effectiveness was consistent regardless of cell aging, variability, or temperature distribution, making it a reliable approach for various battery research and development applications.
Applications
This research focuses on improving lithium-ion battery performance and lifespan by addressing lithium plating during fast charging. The study demonstrates a real-time, non-destructive method for visualizing lithium plating dynamics, aiding the development of safer and more reliable batteries for applications such as electric vehicles and renewable energy storage.
The use of ultrasound imaging for real-time monitoring can assist manufacturers in optimizing battery safety and durability. The cost-efficient hardware required for this method also makes it suitable for adoption in both research and industrial settings.
Conclusion
The methodologies demonstrated effectiveness in improving the understanding of lithium-ion battery dynamics. The real-time, non-destructive imaging technique for lithium plating offers a practical tool for researchers and manufacturers, supporting the development of safer and more efficient energy storage solutions.
As battery technology advances, this research contributes to addressing challenges associated with fast charging and battery lifespan. Further advancements in ultrasound imaging may enhance battery health monitoring, aiding the development of sustainable energy systems.
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Wasylowski, D., et al. (2024). Operando visualisation of lithium plating by ultrasound imaging of battery cells. Nat Commun. DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-54319-6, https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-54319-6
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