Scientists propose adding chemical components to electrolytes to slow degradation in lithium-ion batteries, improving longevity for smartphones, laptops, and EVs without expensive technologies.
© A. Krivonosov
The lifespan of batteries in smartphones, laptops, and electric vehicles could see significant improvement—without resorting to expensive or exotic technologies. Scientists have proposed a relatively simple chemical approach that can slow the degradation of lithium-ion batteries and preserve their capacity for longer periods.
As reported by boda.su, the main issue with these batteries is well-known: with each charge and discharge cycle, the internal materials gradually break down. In a classic lithium-ion cell design, there's an anode, a cathode, and an electrolyte through which lithium ions move. During the initial cycles, a protective layer forms on the anode, stabilizing the battery's operation and preventing further electrolyte degradation—a long-studied and beneficial process.
The cathode presents a more complex challenge. Under high voltages and prolonged loads, the electrolyte continues to engage in unwanted reactions, making the protective layer unstable. This accelerates battery wear and leads to capacity loss, particularly in high-power devices and electric vehicles.
The solution highlighted by researchers doesn't require a radical redesign of battery construction. Instead, it involves adding special chemical components directly into the electrolyte. These additives react first with the cathode surface, forming a more stable protective film that reduces side reactions and slows material breakdown.
Experiments show that even inexpensive, well-known chemical compounds can significantly increase the number of operational cycles a battery can handle. Importantly, this approach doesn't require rare materials or complex manufacturing processes—it's compatible with existing technologies.
Scientists believe this optimization is particularly crucial for electric vehicles and portable electronics, where battery longevity directly impacts ownership costs and device lifespan. While the method is still in the research phase, it's already viewed as one of the most promising directions for advancing lithium-ion battery technology.