Lithium-ion batteries: Why do they deteriorate? Here’s why and what we can do to prevent it.
Lithium batteries
Lithium-ion batteries are widely used in modern technology and power a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, and electric vehicles. They are valued for their performance, high energy density, and fast charging capabilities. However, over time, these batteries tend to lose some of their energy, resulting in a decrease in performance, leading to the need for replacement or reduced battery life. But what causes this degradation?
Characteristics of lithium-ion batteries
Lithium-ion batteries use the movement of lithium ions between two electrodes , the anode and the cathode, through an electrolyte. During charging, lithium ions move from the cathode to the anode, and during discharging, the process occurs in the opposite direction. This movement of lithium ions helps generate an electric current and, therefore, power devices.
Lithium battery of a phone
This type of battery has proven to be efficient and economical compared to other technologies , but has certain limitations that contribute to its deterioration over time.
The causes of lithium-ion battery deterioration are different, let’s find out together and see if there is a way to avoid it.
Because batteries deteriorate
Like many other devices, lithium-ion batteries don’t last forever . But what are the factors that lead to their deterioration? The most common is recharging.
During charge and discharge cycles, batteries experience mechanical stress caused by the volume of materials expanding and contracting. This phenomenon results in the formation of tiny cracks on the electrode, which can compromise the battery’s structure and reduce its lifespan over time.
With each charge and discharge cycle, small lithium particles can leak from the cells, reducing the amount of lithium available for ion movement. This gradual process naturally contributes to the deterioration of battery performance.
charge lithium-ion batteries
Over time, a thin layer of solid substance forms on the electrodes , called solid electrolyte interphase (SEI). The accumulation of SEI can lead to a loss of efficiency in storing and releasing lithium ions, negatively affecting the overall performance of the battery.
High temperatures can also accelerate battery deterioration. Prolonged exposure to heat, for example, can increase the chemical and physical degradation process within the battery, reducing its capacity and lifespan. So what can we do to prevent battery deterioration ? Unfortunately, aside from simply recharging them only when necessary, there is nothing we as consumers can do to prevent the natural deterioration process. However, studies are underway to replace lithium with alternative metals.
Replacement of lithium with other metals
Some researchers are exploring the idea of replacing lithium with other metals such as aluminum, copper, or magnesium to improve battery performance and lifespan. However, this experimentation poses a real challenge . These metals have different chemical properties and require different electrode and electrolyte structures, which complicates the design of efficient and safe batteries. In addition, research and development of new technologies requires a lot of time and resources.
batteries
Undoubtedly , lithium-ion batteries are a widely used and appreciated technology for their performance and energy density. However, over time, these batteries tend to lose some of their capacity due to chemical and physical phenomena that occur during charge and discharge cycles.
Despite the challenges of replacing lithium with other metals, research continues to develop more efficient and durable batteries . In the meantime, prudent usage practices are essential to extend the life of lithium-ion batteries, such as avoiding excessive temperatures and exposure to overly extreme charge cycles.