Scientists at Argonne National Laboratory have developed a new dual-gradient design for cathodes that promises to significantly improve lithium-ion battery performance and reduce costs. This could potentially accelerate the introduction of electric vehicles and grid energy storage.
This innovation builds on a previous breakthrough at Argonne National Laboratory in 2012, when researchers developed a composition gradient cathode that increased energy density and longevity.
«The team has adjusted the composition of nickel, manganese, and cobalt in the cathode particles to optimize the beneficial characteristics of these metals», — the press release says.
The new dual gradient structure improves on previous technology by incorporating structural gradients in addition to compositional gradients. This unique configuration offers several advantages. The disordered surface increases stability and prevents cracking, which is a common problem in high-voltage batteries. At the same time, the ordered core ensures efficient transfer of lithium ions, which is crucial for fast charging and discharging.
To confirm the effectiveness of this new cathode, the research team conducted a comprehensive series of tests. The tests confirmed the excellent performance of the dual gradient cathode. The particles demonstrated exceptional structural and chemical stability during high voltage operation.
«After charging and discharging the material 500 times, it lost only about 2% of its capacity», — the press release states.
In addition, the new design significantly reduces the amount of cobalt required, which is a scarce and expensive material. By concentrating most of the cobalt on the surface of the particles, the researchers were able to drastically reduce the overall cobalt content of the cathode.
The concentration of cobalt inside the particle was less than 2% — compared to 10-20% in the original design, the researchers emphasized. In the future, they plan to further reduce the level of cobalt to 1%.
«This helps us to make batteries much more environmentally friendly,» the researchers note.
In addition to all this, the new cathode design also demonstrates improved thermal stability. This is crucial to ensure safety during high voltage operation.
Argonne National Laboratory has patented this innovative design and manufacturing process. Now it’s time for the battery industry to license the technology.
Source: interestingengineering
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