In the quest for better battery performance, particularly in terms of energy density, cycling life, charging speed, and wider temperature range, researchers have been exploring new avenues to enhance lithium-ion battery technology. One of the key components in lithium-ion batteries is the cathode material, with LiCoO2 (LCO) being the primary choice. However, existing electrolytes have limitations that hinder the full potential of LCO in terms of energy density and fast charging capabilities.
Recently, a team led by Prof. Wu Zhongshuai from the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics (DICP) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) developed a groundbreaking “cocktail electrolyte” that addresses these limitations. By incorporating a combination of additives, the electrolyte enables commercial LCO to operate at high voltage (4.6 V) and ultra-fast charging rates (5 C) across a wide temperature range (-20 to 45°C). This electrolyte also demonstrates compatibility with high-Ni and Co-free cathodes, showcasing its versatility and potential for widespread adoption in lithium-ion batteries.
The key innovation lies in the synergistic cooperation of multiple additives in the “cocktail electrolyte” (FPE), which results in the formation of robust and kinetically efficient electrode/electrolyte interphases on both the cathode and anode. These interfaces, enriched with LiF and Li3PO4, offer enhanced mechanical stability and ionic conductivity, effectively preventing cathode degradation, undesirable interfacial reactions, and inhibiting the formation of lithium dendrites even under high current densities. As a result, the battery exhibits exceptional performance, with a capacity retention of 73.2% after 1,000 cycles at 5 C and long-term stability over 3,800 cycles in practical pouch-type cells.
The development of this “cocktail electrolyte” not only paves the way for high-energy-density and fast-charging lithium-ion batteries but also opens up new possibilities for the integration of advanced electrolyte materials in battery technology. The successful application of FPE in high-voltage Ni-rich and Co-free cathodes demonstrates its potential for widespread adoption across different battery chemistries. Prof. Wu Zhongshuai emphasizes that this work provides a practical strategy for enhancing battery performance and meeting the increasing demands of consumers for more efficient and reliable energy storage solutions.
The research conducted by Prof. Wu and his team represents a significant advancement in the field of lithium-ion battery technology, offering a promising solution to the challenges faced in achieving high performance and stability in battery operation. The development of the “cocktail electrolyte” showcases the potential of innovative approaches in enhancing battery efficiency and opens up new possibilities for future advancements in energy storage systems.
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