Researchers at Fudan University in China have devised a lithium injection method to revitalize degraded lithium-ion batteries. This involves injecting a carrier molecule that releases lithium ions, effectively restoring battery capacity and extending lifespan.
The method addresses the issue of inactive lithium deposits formed during charge-discharge cycles. The carrier molecule dissolves in the electrolyte, releasing lithium ions and improving battery performance. Testing showed an increase in battery life from 1,500 to 12,000 cycles.
This breakthrough could drastically extend the lifespan of EV batteries, reducing the need for frequent replacements and decreasing electronic waste. It could also lower consumer costs and promote more sustainable electric transport. The technology's scalability for industrial production is currently being explored by the researchers.
The main challenge lies in scaling the method for industrial production and integration into commercial supply chains. While the long-term market impact is uncertain, the potential is substantial for revolutionizing the electric vehicle industry and promoting more sustainable practices.
By injecting a carrier molecule, the old and degraded lithium-ion battery becomes as good as new /Panasonic
Scientists in China claim to have found a way to breathe new life into worn-out lithium-ion batteries. Researchers at Fudan University have developed a revolutionary lithium injection method that could restore degraded batteries to near-factory conditions. They say this breakthrough could dramatically extend battery lifespan and stabilize EV resale values.
The findings, published in the journal Nature, tackle a fundamental problem: lithium-ion batteries, the backbone of electric transport, inevitably degrade over time. But now, that may no longer be an inevitability.
Reanimating ‘dead’ batteries
The issue lies in the way lithium moves inside the battery. Each charge and discharge cycle causes some lithium to form inactive deposits, reducing the number of ions available to store energy. Eventually, the capacity falls below the threshold required for practical use, limiting battery life to between 500 and 2,000 cycles.
But where others see an irreversible decline, the Fudan team sees something fixable. They likened the problem to a treatable illness—one where the failure of a single component compromises the entire system. Their solution? Restore lost lithium without dismantling the battery by giving it some ‘medicine.’
A shot in the arm
At the center of their breakthrough is a specially designed carrier molecule that can be injected directly into a failing battery. Once inside, it dissolves in the electrolyte and decomposes controlled, releasing lithium ions into circulation. The process expels gas as a byproduct, but reportedly safely. It is quick, noninvasive, and requires no disassembly, as mentioned.
The results are staggering. Testing showed the injections could extend battery life from 1,500 cycles to 12,000. That means an EV battery that might previously have lasted eight years could now remain functional for decades.
A cure for battery waste?
Beyond performance gains, the discovery could have far-reaching environmental benefits. The automotive industry faces mounting pressure to deal with the growing number of depleted lithium-ion batteries, many of which end up as difficult-to-recycle waste. Extending their lifespan could reduce the need for frequent replacements, cutting down on mining demand and electronic spills.
China, already a global leader in lithium battery production, stands to benefit enormously. With industry giants like CATL and BYD dominating the market, this latest breakthrough could further cement the country’s position at the forefront of battery technology.
A long road to market
However, the ‘lithium needle’ remains in a drawer in the lab. The Fudan team is discussing with significant battery manufacturers to explore how their method can be scaled for industrial production. The challenge will be integrating the technique into commercial supply chains.
This innovation could mark a turning point in the EV industry. Longer-lasting batteries would mean lower consumer costs, fewer resource-intensive manufacturing processes, and a significant step toward making electric transport more sustainable.
For now, though, the wait continues. Whether this battery injection will become a widespread reality remains to be seen—but if it does, it could change the game for electric mobility.
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