Researchers looked inside the battery

Scientists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology were able to look at how an exotic state of matter – a “random solid solution” – affects ions moving in the material of a lithium-ion battery.

According to the researchers, the new data explain the unexpectedly high power and long lifespan of such energy storage devices. The solid solution zone was predicted theoretically, but only now MIT engineers have discovered it directly, using a translucent electron microscope (PEM). The observations helped to understand some of the features of electrodes made of lithium iron phosphate materials (LiFePO4). Professor Lee said: “We, by direct observation, have been able to solve this fundamental problem that has intrigued scientists for years.”

Unlike conventional PEM methods, the equipment for this experiment made it possible to observe battery components dynamically. “A better understanding of dynamic processes can improve the performance of an electrode material, its properties and efficiency,” Lee said. Compared to traditional lithium-ion, lithium phosphate iron is an environmentally friendly and very stable material. But it was important to understand its properties.” Despite the fact that the experiment was carried out in relation to LiFePO4, scientists say about the general nature of the scientific discovery. The same principle can be applied to other electrode materials.

Source: nauka24news.ru/