Battery Cracks Solved: Longer Life, Safer EVs Ahead

Scientists at Argonne National Laboratory and the Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering have pinpointed the cause of persistent problems in lithium-ion batteries, such as fading capacity and reduced lifespan. The research clarifies why certain advanced battery materials degrade faster than anticipated and suggests methods to mitigate these failures.

Previous efforts focused on single-crystal cathodes to avoid cracking seen in polycrystalline materials. However, these single-crystal versions often underperformed. The new study reveals that design rules for polycrystalline cathodes were incorrectly applied to single-crystal materials, leading to unexpected degradation mechanisms and different material requirements.

This discovery challenges existing battery design strategies. It highlights that manganese can cause mechanical damage in single-crystal cathodes, while cobalt surprisingly improves their durability and lifespan. This insight is vital for developing safer and more robust battery technologies for widespread adoption.