Influence of Mechanical Degradation in Polycrystalline NMC Particles on the Electrochemical Performance of Lithium-Ion Batteries

Abstract

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have gained widespread popularity for energy storage systems owing to their high coulombic efficiency and energy density. Within the cathode electrode materials of LIBs, the structural integrity of secondary particles, composed of randomly oriented single-crystal primary active particles, is crucial for sustained performance. The fracture of these particles can occur due to both mechanical stress and chemical interactions within the solid. Modeling LIBs presents a multiphysics challenge as it involves addressing the electro-chemo-mechanical phenomena and their interactions across various length scales. During electrochemical cycling, volume changes in active particles induce mechanical stresses, while the mechanical state of the battery influences the diffusion of lithium.This study proposes a numerical modeling framework to investigate the degradation of active material particles and its impact on electrochemical performance. The model integrates mechanical and electrochemical processes, solving nonlinear equations related to surface charge transfer, lithium diffusion, and mechanical stresses. By incorporating phase field damage, the model tracks crack evolution and mechanical failure of active particles. The coupled equations are solved within a finite element framework using COMSOL Multiphysics.Notably, the model offers numerical insights into intergranular and transgranular fracture within secondary active material particles. The infiltration of liquid electrolyte into cracks is identified as a positive effect, reducing electrochemical overpotential by increasing electrochemically active surface area from particle cracking. However, prolonged cycling with particle cracking poses a notable threat to battery performance and capacity. This comprehensive numerical modeling approach provides valuable insights into the intricate interplay of mechanical and electrochemical factors governing LIB performance and degradation.