close
close

Researchers are making breakthroughs in lithium-ion battery technology that will improve the performance of our everyday devices, including electric cars

Researchers are making breakthroughs in lithium-ion battery technology that will improve the performance of our everyday devices, including electric cars

Discoveries like the one described in this article could help further the growth of the electric vehicle industry.

Photo credit: Getty Images

One consideration for many car buyers interested in an electric vehicle is battery range. A group of researchers from Russia recently made a breakthrough in improving batteries for electric vehicles, detailed in their paper published in ScienceDirect.

High energy density lithium-ion batteries (LIB) are becoming increasingly popular. These batteries are used in a variety of devices, from the cell phone in your hands to the laptop on your desk to the electric car in your driveway.

The new method discovered by the research team could expand the capabilities of LIBs, which power many of the devices we use in everyday life, including electric vehicles.

Ni-rich layered oxides are commonly used to make cathodes in LIBs. Cathodes allow current to flow out of the battery, and they play a key role in determining the cost, cycling, capacity and thermal performance of LIBs.

Researchers have used layered oxides with ultra-high nickel content to increase energy density; however, higher nickel concentrations may result in microcracks.

To solve this problem, the team controlled the microstructure of the material and used plate-like particles to ensure uniform expansion and contraction.

Additionally, the team used a high-cobalt coating on the surface of the cathode material to prevent microcracks and improve mechanical stability.

Overall, the authors of the article noted a significant improvement in cycling stability (battery life) and high specific discharge capacity (increased range).

The popularity of electric vehicles has grown over the years. Almost one in five cars sold worldwide in 2023 was an electric vehicle, according to the IEA. As demand for electric vehicles grows, so does the demand for higher-performance batteries.

🗣️ If you were looking to buy an electric car, which of these factors would be most important to you?

🔘 Cost 💰

🔘 Battery charge 🔋

🔘Power and speed 💪

🔘What does it look like 😎

🗳️ Click on your choice to see the results and give your opinion.

Discoveries like the one described in this article could help further the growth of the electric vehicle industry, allowing more drivers to experience the benefits of ditching their gas-powered vehicles.

Electric vehicles improve the nation’s energy security by reducing our dependence on dirty fuels. They also save drivers a ton of money because they don’t need expensive gas and don’t require as much maintenance.

They are also better for the environment, reducing toxic pollution that contributes to rising global temperatures. The climate crisis has led to worsening extreme weather events, putting lives at risk, and air pollution has been linked to premature death and disease.

Switching to an electric vehicle is good for your wallet and your health. Advances in electric vehicles, including batteries, are helping to make electric vehicles a smart choice for more consumers, helping to reduce pollution and create a safer environment for us all.

Sign up for our free newsletter to receive weekly updates on the latest innovations. improving our lives And shaping our futureand don’t miss this cool list of simple ways to help yourself and the planet.


Cool separator