- Unveil a lithium-ion battery material that charges at lightning-fast speeds, redefining the EV experience.
- Stands to catapult the electric vehicle industry into a future where convenience meets sustainability.
In a development that promises to revolutionise the electric vehicle (EV) sector, Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) scientists have crafted a lithium-ion battery material capable of extremely fast charging. This innovation, which can recharge up to 80% of its capacity in a mere 10 minutes and maintains this remarkable trait through 1,500 charging cycles, is set to diminish the prevalent inconvenience associated with slow battery recharge times, heralding a new era for electric vehicles.
Led by Zhijia Du, the research team focused on enhancing the efficiency of the electrolyte – a medium facilitating the flow of ions between electrodes during the operation or charging of the battery. Through the concoction of new formulations involving lithium salts mixed with carbonate solvents, the team fostered a more sustained ion flow over time, even amidst the high temperatures generated during extreme fast charging. This nuanced approach enhances the battery’s longevity and elevates its performance to unprecedented levels.
To validate the efficacy and safety of this invention, project associates rigorously tested battery pouch cells manufactured at ORNL’s renowned Battery Manufacturing Facility, analysing the battery’s safety protocols and cycling characteristics meticulously. The researchers accentuated the potential impact of their discovery; this new electrolyte formulation triples the Department of Energy’s target for the lifespan of an extreme-fast-charging battery.This development stands as a testament to ORNL’s collaborative spirit and ingenuity, bringing the vision of a more sustainable and efficient electric vehicle infrastructure considerably closer to fruition.
