Improved electrochemical performance of fast-charging Li-S batteries with constant power transfer protocol

Abstract

Reducing the time required to replenish depleted energy in batteries stands as a crucial milestone to propel further advancements in electric vehicles and related applications. Traditional charging procedures pose notable challenges, particularly the reduction in battery capacity observed at higher current levels. In the pursuit of novel rapid protocols, certain approaches have been devised and implemented. However, their feasibility, practicality, and specific technological advantages remain unclear. In this study, we conduct a comparative analysis, for the first time, of the electrochemical performance of promising lithium‑sulfur batteries. We assess the use of an unconventional fast charging protocol involving constant power transfer against the outcomes derived from employing the conventional constant current protocol under similar conditions. The constant power charging protocol proves highly effective for rapid charging rates (ranging from 1C to 4C), resulting in over a 10 % reduction in charging duration compared to the conventional CC protocol. Additionally, it significantly decreases overall degradation per cycle by up to 46.67 % and noticeably enhances cell lifespan, all while maintaining the same energy consumption during the charging process. The observed differences in behavior provide valuable insights into the mechanisms through which the constant power protocol enhances electrochemical performance.