Yellow mignon AA batteries on the blue printed circuit board. Macro shot
A team of scientists from Fudan University in China has developed a breakthrough method to rejuvenate old lithium-ion batteries, significantly extending their lifespan.
By injecting lithium into the batteries, the researchers claim that the service life of the batteries can be extended by thousands of charging cycles.
The research team, composed of chemists, molecular engineers, and material scientists, succeeded in increasing the average number of charging cycles of a battery from 1,500 to an impressive 12,000.
This advancement addresses a common issue with lithium-ion batteries—degradation over time, which reduces battery performance.
As lithium ions are deposited, they form “dead lithium” deposits that decrease the electrolyte’s lithium ion concentration, ultimately reducing the battery’s capacity.
Once the capacity falls below 80% of its original value, the battery is generally considered unsuitable for mobile use, such as in vehicles.
Through detailed experimentation, the team compared battery degradation to a disease progression, where a key component deteriorates while the rest of the system remains functional.
The researchers then developed special materials to restore lost lithium ions, improving both the performance and lifespan of the batteries.
Using an AI-driven tool trained on digitized molecular properties, the team identified LiSO₂CF₃, a molecule that met all compatibility requirements, was cost-effective, and could be used in nearly all commercially available batteries.
The rejuvenation process involves injecting this molecule into the area where the active lithium ions are located. A small amount of gas is released during the process, after which the battery can be recharged.
Tests demonstrated a significant improvement in battery life, increasing the average cycle count from 1,500 to 12,000, reducing environmental impact by prolonging battery usage and reducing waste.
However, the method is not universally applicable. The batteries must be designed to accommodate this process from the start, allowing for the release of chemical by-products.
Despite this limitation, the new approach offers a promising solution for extending the life of lithium-ion batteries, potentially delaying the need for decommissioning.
