Researchers from Oxford University published a study in nature that claims to have developed a technique to scan EV batteries at details that will allow scientists to fine-tune material to greatly enhance the capacity to store power, as well as extend the shelf life of the battery at exponential levels. If proven true, the breakthrough could change the whole dynamic for the EV and Electric Aviation industry, both of which are significantly limited compared to their fuel-based counterparts.
From miragenews.com:
In this latest study, the group used an advanced imaging technique called X-ray computed tomography at Diamond Light Source to visualise dendrite failure in unprecedented detail during the charging process. The new imaging study revealed that the initiation and propagation of the dendrite cracks are separate processes, driven by distinct underlying mechanisms. Dendrite cracks initiate when lithium accumulates in sub-surface pores. When the pores become full, further charging of the battery increases the pressure, leading to cracking. In contrast, propagation occurs with lithium only partially filling the crack, through a wedge-opening mechanism which drives the crack open from the rear.
This new understanding points the way forward to overcoming the technological challenges of Li-SSBs. Dominic Melvin said: ‘For instance, while pressure at the lithium anode can be good to avoid gaps developing at the interface with the solid electrolyte on discharge, our results demonstrate that too much pressure can be detrimental, making dendrite propagation and short-circuit on charging more likely.’
The breakthrough could also potentially greatly reduce the current high demand on resources for EV batteries, especially for lithium.
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