Search Results (248)

The safety of lithium-ion batteries during transportation is critically important. However, current standards exhibit limitations, as their environmental testing parameter thresholds fail to fully encompass actual transportation conditions. To enhance both safety and standard applicability, in this study, we focused on four representative environmental conditions: temperature, vibration, shock, and low atmospheric pressure. Field measurements were conducted across road, rail, and air transport modes using a self-developed data acquisition system based on the NearLink communication technology. The measured data were then compared with the threshold values defined in current international and national standards. The results reveal that certain measured values exceeded the upper limits prescribed by existing standards, indicating limitations in their applicability under extreme transport conditions. Based on these findings, we propose revised testing parameters that better reflect actual transport risks, including a temperature cycling range of 72 ± 2 °C (high) and −40 ± 2 °C (low), a shock acceleration limit of 50 gn, adjusted peak frequencies in the vibration PSD profile, and a minimum pressure threshold of 11.6 kPa. These results provide a scientific basis for optimising safety standards and improving the safety of lithium-ion battery transportation. Full article

The large-scale integration of volatile and intermittent renewables necessitates greater flexibility in the power system. Improving this flexibility is key to achieving a high proportion of renewable energy consumption. In this context, the scientific selection of energy storage technology is of great significance for the construction of new power systems. From the perspective of life cycle cost analysis, this paper conducts an economic evaluation of four mainstream energy storage technologies: lithium iron phosphate battery, pumped storage, compressed air energy storage, and hydrogen energy storage, and quantifies and compares the life cycle cost of multiple energy storage technologies. On this basis, a three-dimensional multi-energy storage comprehensive evaluation indicator system covering economy, technology, and environment is constructed. The improved grade one method and entropy weight method are used to determine the comprehensive performance, and the fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method is used to carry out multi-attribute decision-making on the multi-energy storage technology in the source, network, and load scenarios. The results show that pumped storage and compressed air energy storage have significant economic advantages in long-term and large-scale application scenarios. With its fast response ability and excellent economic and technical characteristics, the lithium iron phosphate battery has the smallest score change rate (15.2%) in various scenarios, showing high adaptability. However, hydrogen energy storage technology still lacks economic and technological maturity, and breakthrough progress is still needed for its wide application in various application scenarios in the future. Full article

After reviewing the state of the art of the fluorination of inorganic solid electrolytes, an application of gas/solid fluorination is given and how it can be processed. Garnet-type oxide has been chosen. These oxides with an ideal structure of chemical formula A₃B₂(XO₄)₃ are mainly known for their magnetic and dielectric properties. Certain garnets may have a high enough Li⁺ ionic conductivity to be used as solid electrolyte of lithium ion battery. The surface of LLZO may be changed in contact with the moisture and CO₂ present in the atmosphere that results in a change of the conductivity at the interface of the solid. LiOH and/or lithium carbonate are formed at the surface of the garnet particles. In order to allow for handling and storage under normal conditions of this solid electrolyte, surface fluorination was performed using elemental fluorine. When controlled using mild conditions (temperature lower or equal to 200 °C, either in static or dynamic mode), the addition of fluorine atoms to LLZO with Li_6,4Al_0,2La₃Zr₂O₁₂ composition is limited to the surface, forming a covering layer of lithium fluoride LiF. The effect of the fluorination was evidenced by IR, Raman, and NMR spectroscopies. If present in the pristine LLZO powder, then the carbonate groups disappear. More interestingly, contrary to the pristine LLZO, the contents of these groups are drastically reduced even after storage in air up to 45 days when the powder is covered with the LiF layer. Surface fluorination could be applied to other solid electrolytes that are air sensitive. Full article

With the development and application of electric vehicles powered by lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) at high altitude, the lack of research on the aging laws and mechanisms of LIBs under a low-pressure aviation environment has become an important obstacle to their safe application. Herein, the influences and mechanisms of high-altitude and low-pressure environment (50 kPa) on the cycling performance of commercial pouch LIBs were systematically studied. The results showed that low air pressure caused a sharp decrease in battery capacity to 46.6% after 200 cycles, with a significant increase in charge transfer impedance by 70%, and the contribution rate of active lithium loss reached 74%. Low air pressure led to irreversible deformation of the battery, resulting in the expansion of the gap between the electrodes, poor electrolyte infiltration, and reduction of the effective lithium insertion area, which in turn induced multiple synergistic accelerated decay mechanisms, including obstructed lithium-ion transmission, reduced interfacial reaction efficiency, increased active lithium consumption, changes in heat generation structure, and a significant increase in heat generation. After applying external force, the deformation of the electrode was effectively suppressed, and the cycle capacity retention rate increased to 87.6%, which significantly alleviated the performance degradation of LIBs in low pressure environment. This work provides a key theoretical basis and engineering solutions for the design of power batteries in high-altitude areas. Full article

This paper explores the implementation of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) in underground mining operations, focusing on their benefits, challenges, and safety considerations. The study examines the shift from traditional diesel-powered machinery to BEVs in response to increasing environmental concerns and stricter emission regulations. It discusses various lithium-ion battery chemistries used in BEVs, particularly lithium–iron–phosphate (LFP) and nickel–manganese–cobalt (NMC), comparing their performance, safety, and suitability for underground mining applications. The research highlights the significant benefits of BEVs, including reduced greenhouse gas emissions, improved air quality in confined spaces, and potential ventilation cost savings. However, it also addresses critical safety concerns, such as fire risks associated with lithium-ion batteries and the emission of toxic gases during thermal runaway events. The manuscript emphasises the importance of comprehensive risk assessment and mitigation strategies when introducing BEVs to underground mining environments. It concludes that while BEVs offer promising solutions for more sustainable and environmentally friendly mining operations, further research is needed to ensure their safe integration into underground mining practices. This study contributes valuable insights to the ongoing discussion on the future of mining technology and its environmental impact. Full article

In this study, we investigate the environmental stability of the sulfide-based argyrodite solid electrolyte Li₆PS₅Cl₀.₅Br₀.₅, a promising candidate for all-solid-state lithium batteries due to its high ionic conductivity and favorable mechanical properties. Despite its potential, the material’s sensitivity to ambient air humidity presents challenges for large-scale battery manufacturing. Moisture exposure leads to performance degradation and the release of toxic hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) gas, raising concerns for workplace safety. The objectives of this study are to validate the electrolyte synthesis process, evaluate the effects of air humidity exposure on its reactivity and ionic conductivity, and establish a standardized protocol for assessing environmental stability. We report a synthesis method based on ball milling and heat treatment that achieves an ionic conductivity of 2.11 mS/cm, along with a fundamental study incorporating modeling and formulation approaches to evaluate the electrolyte’s environmental stability. Furthermore, we introduce a simplified testing method for assessing environmental stability, which may serve as a benchmark protocol for the broader class of argyrodite solid electrolytes. Full article

Recently, electric vehicles (EVs) have proven to be a practical option for lowering greenhouse gas emissions and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Lithium-ion batteries, at the core of this innovation, require efficient thermal management to ensure optimal performance, safety, and durability. This article reviews current scientific studies on controlling the temperature of lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles. Several cooling strategies are discussed, including air cooling, liquid cooling, the use of phase change materials (PCMs), and hybrids that combine these three types of cooling, with the primary objective of enhancing the thermal performance of the batteries. Additionally, the challenges and proposed solutions in battery pack design and energy management methodologies are explored. As the demand for electric vehicles increases, improving battery thermal management systems (BTMSs) is becoming increasingly important. Implementing and developing better BTMSs will help increase the autonomy and safety of electric vehicles in the long term. Full article

Lithium–air batteries (LABs) possess the highest energy density among all energy storage systems, and have drawn widespread interest in academia and industry. However, many arduous challenges are still to be conquered, one of them is Li₂CO₃, which is a ubiquitous product in LABs. It is inevitably produced but difficult to decompose; therefore, Li₂CO₃ is perceived as the “Achilles’ heel of LABs”. Among various approaches to addressing the Li₂CO₃ issue, developing Li₂CO₃-decomposing redox mediators (RMs) is one of the most convenient and versatile, because they can be electrochemically oxidized at the gas cathode surface, then they diffuse to the solid-state products and chemically oxidize them, recovering the RMs to a pristine state and avoiding solid-state catalysts’ contact instability with Li₂CO₃. Furthermore, because of their function mechanism, they can double as catalysts for Li₂O₂/LiOH decomposition, which are needed in LABs/LOBs anyway regardless of Li₂CO₃ incorporation due to the sluggish kinetics of oxygen reduction/evolution reactions. This review summarizes the progress in Li₂CO₃-decomposing RMs, including halides, metal–chelate complexes, and metal-free organic compounds. The insights into and discrepancies in the mechanisms of Li₂CO₃ decomposition and corresponding catalysis processes are also discussed. Full article

Traditional lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) utilize liquid electrolytes, which pose significant safety risks. To address these concerns and enhance energy density, all-solid-state batteries (ASSBs) have emerged as a safer and more efficient alternative to conventional liquid electrolyte-based systems. ASSBs offer notable advantages, including higher energy density and improved safety, driving growing interest from both industry and academia. A key component in all-solid-state battery (ASSB) development is the solid-state electrolyte (SSE), which plays a crucial role in determining the overall performance and safety of these batteries. Sulfide SSEs are characterized by distinctive attributes, including notably high ionic conductivity and remarkably low interfacial resistance with lithium metal anodes, which renders them particularly advantageous for advancing ASSB technology. This paper systematically examines sulfide-based SSEs, with particular emphasis on their underlying physicochemical properties, structural characteristics, and essential functional attributes relevant to ASSB applications. Additionally, we explore preparation methods for sulfide SSEs and analyze their potential applications in next-generation ASSBs. Considering current challenges (e.g., interfacial instability or air sensitivity) we summarize strategies to address these obstacles, aiming to facilitate their integration into future energy storage systems. Full article

Lithium-ion batteries risk failing when subjected to different abuse tests, resulting in gas and flames. In this study, 5 Ah nickel manganese cobalt oxide (NMC) pouch cells were subjected to external heating; overcharge at rates of 2.5, 5 and 10 A; and nail penetration. Tests were conducted in air and N₂ atmospheres. Additional external heat tests were performed on cells at 5, 25, 50, and 75% SoC and on two, three, and four cell blocks. Gas volumes were calculated, and the gas composition was given for H₂, CO, CO₂, C₂H₄, C₂H₆, CH₄, C₃H₆, and C₃H₈. For tests under an air atmosphere at 100% SoC, the volume of gas varied between abuse methods: 3.9 L (external heat), 6.4 L (overcharge), and 8.9 L (nail penetration). The gas composition was found to predominantly contain H₂, CO₂, and CO for all abuse methods; however, higher concentrations of H₂ and CO were present in tests performed under N₂. External heat tests at different SoCs showed that the gas volume decreased with SoC. Overall, the type of abuse method can have a large effect on the gas volume and composition produced by cell failure. Full article

The capacity and generation of wind, solar, storage, nuclear, and gas are estimated for large, idealized copper-plate electric grids. Wind and solar penetrations of 30% to 80% are considered together with different storage systems such as vanadium and lithium-ion batteries, pumped hydroelectric, compressed air, and hydrogen. In addition to a baseline dispatchable fleet without wind/solar, two bounding cases with wind/solar are analyzed: one without storage and one where the whole wind/solar fleet is connected to the storage system, hence providing a buffer between the wind/solar fleet and the grid. The reality will likely be somewhere between these bounding cases. The viability of a power grid with a large wind/solar penetration and no storage is not guaranteed but was nonetheless considered to provide a lower-bound capital cost estimate. Overall, the options that rely strongly on wind, solar, and storage could be significantly more capital-intensive than those that rely strongly on nuclear, depending on the amount of storage necessary to ensure grid stability. This is especially true in the long run because wind, solar, and storage assets have shorter lifetimes than nuclear plants and, consequently, need to be replaced more frequently. More analyses (e.g., grid stability and public acceptance) are necessary to determine which option is most likely to provide the path of least resistance to powering a clean, affordable, and reliable grid in a timely manner. Depending on the priorities, the path of least resistance may not necessarily be the one that is less capital intensive. Full article

Layered double hydroxides (LDHs), notable for their unique two-dimensional layered structures, have attracted significant research attention due to their exceptional versatility and promising performance in energy storage and conversion applications. This comprehensive review systematically addresses the fundamentals and diverse synthesis strategies for LDHs, including co-precipitation, hydrothermal synthesis, electrochemical deposition, sol-gel processes, ultrasonication, and exfoliation techniques. The synthesis methods profoundly influence the physicochemical properties, morphology, and electrochemical performance of LDHs, necessitating a detailed understanding to optimize their applications. In this paper, the role of LDHs in batteries, supercapacitors, and hydrogen production is critically evaluated. We discuss their incorporation in various battery systems, such as lithium-ion, lithium–sulfur, sodium-ion, chloride-ion, zinc-ion, and zinc–air batteries, highlighting their structural and electrochemical advantages. Additionally, the superior pseudocapacitive behavior and high energy densities offered by LDHs in supercapacitors are elucidated. The effectiveness of LDHs in hydrogen production, particularly through electrocatalytic water splitting, underscores their significance in renewable energy systems. This review paper uniquely integrates these three pivotal energy technologies, outlining current innovations and challenges, thus fulfilling a critical need for the scientific community by providing consolidated insights and guiding future research directions. Full article

In order to effectively recover Li from cathode active materials of lithium-ion batteries, model samples of LiCoO₂ mixed with polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) were calcined at temperatures of 350–700 °C under an Ar or air atmosphere. Complete Li recovery was achieved by calcining the model sample at 400 °C under an Ar atmosphere, followed by water leaching. Additionally, to immobilize PVDF-derived F, an impurity in Li purification, we explored the use of calcium compounds (Ca(OH)₂ and CaCO₃) and a layered double hydroxide in both dry and wet processing methods. In the wet process, F was fixed by adding Ca(OH)₂ to an aqueous LiF solution containing 1000 ppm of F. We confirmed that 98.6% of F was successfully removed from the solution after repeated fixation procedures. Furthermore, the unreacted Ca in the solution was separated and removed as CaCO₃ by concentrating the solution. Full article

Li-ion batteries (LIBs) are one of the most deployed energy storage technologies worldwide, providing power for a wide range of applications—from portable electronic devices to electric vehicles (EVs). The growing demand for LIBs, coupled with a shortage of critical battery materials, has prompted the scientific community to seek ways to improve material utilization through the recycling of end-of-life LIBs. While valuable battery metals are already being recycled on an industrial scale, graphite—a material classified as a critical resource—continues to be discarded. In this study, graphite waste recovered from the recycling of LIBs was successfully upcycled into an active graphite/rGO (reduced graphene oxide) composite oxygen electrocatalyst. The precursor graphite for rGO synthesis was also extracted from LIBs. Incorporating rGO into the graphite significantly enhanced the specific surface area and porosity of the resulting composite, facilitating effective doping with residual metals during subsequent nitrogen doping via pyrolysis. These composite catalysts enhanced both the oxygen reduction and oxygen evolution reactions, enabling their use as air electrode catalyst materials in zinc–air batteries (ZABs). The best-performing composite catalyst demonstrated an impressive power density of 100 mW cm⁻² and exceptional cycling stability for 137 h. This research further demonstrates the utilization of waste fractions from LIB recycling to drive advancements in energy conversion technologies. Full article

Energy storage technology is a critical component in supporting the construction of new power systems and promoting the low-carbon transformation of the energy system. Currently, new energy storage in China is in a pivotal transition phase from research and demonstration to the initial stage of commercialization. However, it still faces numerous challenges, including incomplete business models, inadequate institutional policies, and unclear cost and revenue recovery mechanisms, particularly on the generation and grid sides. Therefore, this paper focuses on grid-side new energy storage technologies, selecting typical operational scenarios to analyze and compare their business models. Based on the lifecycle assessment method and techno-economic theories, the costs and benefits of various new energy storage technologies are compared and analyzed. This study aims to provide rational suggestions and incentive policies to enhance the technological maturity and economic feasibility of grid-side energy storage, improve cost recovery mechanisms, and promote the sustainable development of power grids. The results indicate that grid-side energy storage business models are becoming increasingly diversified, with typical models including shared leasing, spot market arbitrage, capacity price compensation, unilateral dispatch, and bilateral trading. From the perspectives of economic efficiency and technological maturity, lithium-ion batteries exhibit significant advantages in enhancing renewable energy consumption due to their low initial investment, high returns, and fast response. Compressed air and vanadium redox flow batteries excel in long-duration storage and cycle life. While molten salt and hydrogen storage face higher financial risks, they show prominent potential in cross-seasonal storage and low-carbon transformation. The sensitivity analysis indicates that the peak–valley electricity price differential and the unit investment cost of installed capacity are the key variables influencing the economic viability of grid-side energy storage. The charge–discharge efficiency and storage lifespan affect long-term returns, while technological advancements and market optimization are expected to further enhance the economic performance of energy storage systems, promoting their commercial application in electricity markets. Full article