Advances In Battery Technology Research Articles

Covalent Organic Frameworks (COFs): A New Class of Materials for Multivalent Metal‐Ion Energy Storage Systems

The rise of electronic societies is driving a surge in the demand for energy storage solutions, particularly in the realm of renewable energy technologies like batteries, which rely heavily on efficient electrode materials and separators. As an answer to this necessity, Covalent Organic Frameworks (COFs) are emerging and a highly intriguing class of materials, garnering increased attention in recent years for their extensive properties and possible applications. This review addresses the remarkable versatility and boundless potential of COFs in scientific fields, mainly focusing on multivalent metal ion batteries (MMIBs), which include AIB (Aluminium‐ion batteries), MIB (Magnesium‐ion battery), CIB (Calcium‐ion battery), and ZIB (Zinc‐ion battery), as both electrode materials and separators across a spectrum of battery technology. Inclusive of their approaches, merits, and reaction mechanisms, this review offers an extensive summary of COFs concerning multivalent ion batteries. By providing a rigorous analysis of COF attributes, electrochemical behaviour, and methodologies, our explanation contributes to a deeper understanding of their potential in advancing battery technology.

Operando lateral state-of-charge inhomogeneity mapping via wavelength-resolved neutron imaging

The continuous advancement in battery technology requires the development of robust and more precise diagnostic tools for the characterization of commercial-scale battery cells. In this work, operando Bragg edge imaging (BEI), based on a time-of-flight approach, provides spatially resolved state-of-charge (SoC) mapping of a commercial-size pouch cell. The changes in the position and intensity of Bragg edges are used to track the Li intercalation into the graphite, thereby identifying the spatial distribution of various lithiation stages and the corresponding SoC. The operando wavelength-resolved BEI assessment revealed an inhomogeneous Li+ intercalation, dependent on the distance to the electrical tabs, effectively identifying features that contribute to the overall loss of performance and the accelerated degradation of battery materials. The presented results demonstrate the potential of advanced wavelength-resolved neutron imaging to be used as a diagnostic tool for commercial battery cells in a configuration without special casings or isotopes for enhancement of imaging contrast. It thus highlights its applicability for operando characterization of future batteries for portable and automotive applications.

Drone Integration in Last-Mile Delivery Operations

Purpose: This research examines the integration of drone technology into last-mile delivery operations, focusing on its impact on supply chain efficiency, cost reduction, and sustainability. The study explores operational challenges, such as air traffic management, payload limitations, regulatory compliance, and public perception, providing a comprehensive understanding of how drones can reshape last-mile logistics. Methodology: The study employs a multi-faceted approach, combining historical analysis, in-depth case studies, and scenario planning to assess the impact of drone technology on last-mile delivery efficiency, cost optimization, and accessibility. Data is gathered from industry reports, interviews with logistics professionals, and regulatory documents. Thematic analysis is conducted to identify critical patterns, while scenario-based modeling offers insight into the potential outcomes of various integration strategies. A comparative evaluation of existing last-mile delivery methods against drone-based delivery models is also provided. Findings: The research reveals that drone technology offers significant potential for enhancing last-mile delivery efficiency, particularly in urban areas and remote locations, aligning with findings from studies like those by Murray & Chu (2015). However, the study identifies considerable obstacles, including regulatory challenges, limited payload capacities, and public acceptance issues. Solutions such as airspace regulation frameworks, collaborative logistics networks, and advanced battery technologies are highlighted as critical enablers for successful drone integration. Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: This study contributes to the growing body of knowledge on drone technology's role in logistics by providing a comprehensive framework for businesses and policymakers to navigate the complexities of drone integration. It recommends actionable steps for integrating drones into last-mile delivery, bridging the gap between theoretical innovation and practical application. It provides policy recommendations for regulatory bodies to develop airspace management systems that support drone operations. For practitioners, the research offers a strategic guide to overcoming operational challenges, facilitating the adoption of drones as a sustainable solution for last-mile delivery.

Exploring impacts of electricity tariff on charging infrastructure planning: An activity-based approach

In the past decade, electric vehicles (EVs) have gained popularity for their efficiency and environmental benefits. Advances in battery technology and charging equipment have yielded long-range EVs and fast-charging. However, many major cities lack adequate charging infrastructure for daily EV use. This study addresses this gap by integrating activity-based modeling, charging behavior simulation, and charging infrastructure optimization. The research utilizes the POLARIS agent-based transportation model to accurately capture user activities, trip patterns, and traffic flows. Additionally, the study investigates the impact of fixed and spatiotemporal electricity rate distributions on optimal charging infrastructure deployment. The framework is applied to the Chicago regional area network and analyzed under various EV ownership scenarios. The results reveal significant impacts of the charging pricing strategy on user decision-making and charging demand distribution. There is also a need for consistent pricing policies in charging infrastructure planning and operational phases to avoid drops in service quality.

Interface Stability and Reaction Mechanisms of Li3YCl5Br with High-Voltage Cathodes and Li Metal Anode: Insights from Ab Initio Simulations.

Recent advancements in battery technology emphasize the critical role of solid electrolytes in enhancing the performance and safety of next-generation batteries. In this study, we investigate the interface stability and reaction mechanisms of Li3YCl5Br, a promising halide-based solid electrolyte, in contact with high-voltage Ni-Mn-Co (NMC) cathodes and a Li metal anode using ab initio molecular dynamics simulations. Our findings reveal that Li3YCl5Br reacts with charged NMC cathodes. This reaction involves changes in the oxidation states of Br- anions in Li3YCl5Br and d-element cations in NMC, as well as the diffusion of Li ions from the solid electrolyte to the cathode to maintain charge balance. The reaction is confined to the interface, suggesting bulk stability. Conversely, the Li/Li3YCl5Br interface exhibits significant instability, with a chemical reaction that results in substantial structural changes and the formation of LiCl and LiBr at the solid electrolyte surface and metallic Y at the Li anode surface. These insights provide valuable information for optimizing interfacial design, aiming at improving the performance and reliability of all-solid-state batteries using halide solid electrolytes.

Next-generation cathodes for calcium-ion batteries: Leveraging NASICON structures for enhanced stability and energy density

This study focuses on developing a high-performance, stable cathode for calcium-ion batteries (CIBs) using a sodium superionic conductor (NASICON) structure to match the energy density and safety standards of current lithium- and sodium-ion batteries. Given the relatively sparse database of CIB materials compared with their lithium and sodium counterparts, expanding the range of new candidates is essential for developing high-performance batteries. To address this, we employed density functional theory (DFT) calculations, which provide a quantum-mechanical description of the electronic properties of materials, to construct a highly reliable database. To improve the accuracy and efficiency, we integrated machine learning interatomic potential with DFT to stabilize the NASICON-type structures, CaxNaV’yV’’2-yBzP3-zO12, where x = 0.8, 0.5, 0; y = 1, 0.5; z = 0.5, 0; V’ and V’’ are transition metals that support stable doped configurations at the V- and P-sites. From the initial 176 candidates, the top 10 materials that facilitate stable structures were identified based on selection criteria focusing on formation energy < 0 eV/atom, energy above hull = 0 eV/atom, gravimetric capacity ≥ 150 mAh/g, -1% ≤ volume change ≤ 1%, and 3 ≤ average voltage ≤ 4.5 V. This approach advances CIB technology and outlines effective strategies for dopant selection to optimize battery cathodes, configuring a framework for future advancements in battery technology.

Evaluation of Lithium-ion Batteries in Electric Vehicles

Growing awareness of climate change concerns and the environmental impacts of fossil fuel vehicles has heightened interest in electric vehicles (EVs). Therefore, EVs represent a significant component of sustainable transportation solutions. Additionally, with advancements in battery technology, EVs now have longer ranges and are offered at more competitive prices. With their notable features such as high energy density, lightness, low maintenance requirement, and long life, lithium-ion batteries (LiBs) appear to be the most suitable battery option for EVs. Nevertheless, current LiB technology faces battery costs, energy storage capacity, charging times, and safety issues. In this context, it is clear that future research and development will focus on improving the efficiency of LiB technology and making these batteries more sustainable, reliable, and economical. This study aims to provide an evaluation of the LiBs used in the automotive sector by examining the historical development, basics of operational principles, various geometric types, cost evaluation, and their advantages and disadvantages. By covering these aspects, the study seeks to offer a comprehensive assessment of the LiBs employed in the automotive industry, spanning from their historical evolution to their presentday utilization. The study also intends to serve as a reference source for researchers planning to conduct studies on LiBs in EVs by providing fundamental concepts and evaluations related to these batteries.

Harnessing MBene termination for superior anode interfaces in Li/Ca-ion batteries

The elevation of two-dimensional (2D) transition metal borides, specifically MBenes, as anode materials for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) and calcium-ion batteries (CIBs) can be achieved through strategic functionalization with appropriate groups. Utilizing a first-principles approach, we conducted an in-depth investigation into the electrochemical properties of chlorine-terminated V2B (V2BCl2) as a candidate anode material for LIBs and CIBs. V2BCl2 exhibits metallic behavior, as demonstrated by band structure analysis, which endows it with exceptional conductivity due to the free electron surface of the system, thereby embodying ideal anode characteristics. The dynamic and thermal stability of the system was assessed through comprehensive phonon dispersion analyses and ab-initio molecular dynamics (AIMD) calculations. High net charge transfer rates of Li/Ca ions towards the monolayer, augmented electron localization function (ELF) near system atoms, and the presence of ionic bonds between Ca/Li and the V2BCl2 monolayer contribute to the enhanced conductivity observed in these anode systems. This is corroborated by metrics such as the projected crystal orbital Hamiltonian population (-pCOHP), low diffusion energy barriers (< 0.35 eV) facilitating rapid charging mechanisms, and low open circuit voltages (< 0.32 V) ensuring robust battery performance stability. Furthermore, V2BCl2 exhibits notable specific storage capacities of 875.67 mAh g−1 for Ca ions and 1167.75 mAh g−1 for Li ions, surpassing the benchmarks set by recent MBene systems. These promising results strongly advocate for V2BCl2 as a viable candidate for anode material in both LIB and CIB applications, highlighting its potential significance in advancing battery technology.

Enhancing composite cathode manufacturing with machine learning for polymer electrolyte solid-state batteries

Solid-state batteries (SSBs) represent a pivotal advancement in battery technology, poised to surpass lithium-ion batteries and drive the electrification of mobility. However, achieving cost-effective, scalable, and sustainable fabrication processes for SSB components remains a challenge. This study integrates machine learning (ML) techniques to optimize manufacturing processes of cathodes for polymer electrolyte based SSBs. The findings reveal strong predictive performance of regression models for active material loading, with support vector machine emerging as the top performer. Multiclassification models exhibit satisfactory precision, particularly in categorizing ideal electrode samples. Analysis of principal component and correlation circles highlight viscosity and wet thickness as critical variables for mixing and coating, respectively. Despite promising metrics, dataset imbalance and size limit model robustness. Further dataset augmentation is recommended before deployment in production. ML techniques offer promise in advancing battery manufacturing, paving the way for enhanced SSB performance and broader application across battery components.

Effect of Chloride Ions on the Electrochemical Performance of Magnesium Metal‐Organic‐Frameworks‐based Semi‐Solid Electrolytes.

The majority of research on magnesium (Mg) electrolytes has focused on enhancing reversible Mg deposition, often employing chloride‐containing electrolytes. However, there is a notable gap in the literature regarding the influence of chloride ions in semi‐solid Mg electrolytes. In this study, we systematically explore the impact of chloride ions on Mg deposition/dissolution on a copper (Cu) anode using a semi‐solid electrolyte composed of Mg‐based mixed metal‐organic frameworks, MgCl2 and Mg(TFSI)2. We separate the Mg deposition/dissolution process from changes in the anode’s surface morphology through cyclic voltammetry and galvanostatic cycling. In this respect, the morphological and compositional transformations in the electrolyte and electrode following galvanostatic cycling are meticulously investigated. Initial potential cycling reveals the feasibility of Mg deposition/dissolution on Cu electrodes, albeit with reduced reversibility in subsequent cycles. Extending the upper potential limit to 4.0 V vs. Mg/Mg2+ enhances Mg dissolution, attributed to chloride ions facilitating Cu surface dissolution. Our findings provide insights into optimizing semi‐solid electrolytes for advanced Magnesium battery technologies.

Electric Cars in Jordan: Opportunities and Challenges

The transition to electric vehicles (EVs) in Jordan is influenced by several key factors and presents opportunities and challenges. Factors influencing EV adoption include advancements in battery technology, government policies promoting EVs, the availability of charging infrastructure, and evolving consumer preferences. The shift towards EVs offers numerous opportunities for Jordan, including reduced fuel costs, enhanced energy security, job creation, tourism promotion, and improved air quality. However, challenges such as the impact on the traditional fuel sector, electricity grid limitations, limited charging infrastructure, and consumer awareness need to be addressed. One major challenge is the potential loss of government revenue from fuel and electric car taxes, which requires strategic planning and alternative revenue generation approaches. By implementing targeted policies, fostering public awareness, engaging in international cooperation, and investing in charging infrastructure and green businesses, Jordan can maximize the economic opportunities and societal benefits of EV adoption while mitigating the challenges. Balancing long-term sustainability with immediate financial considerations is essential for a successful and equitable transition towards a cleaner transportation future in Jordan.

Structural, electrical, and transport properties of a PVB: NH4Br complexed solid polymer electrolyte films for electrochemical cell applications

ABSTRACT Polymer electrolytes are a key development in advancing battery technology, enabling more efficient energy storage. This study focused on developing a solid-state polymer electrolyte film by doping NH4Br with Polyvinyl Butyral (PVB) using a solution-cast method. X-ray diffraction (XRD) was employed to evaluate the amorphousness and crystallinity of the films, while Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed complex formation between the salt and polymer. The glass transition temperature (Tg) of the electrolyte film was estimated using Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC). Ionic conductivity was measured through AC impedance spectroscopy, revealing that the PVB-NH4Br electrolyte doped with 30 wt% NH4Br at 30 °C had an ionic conductivity of 1.47 × 10−7 S cm−1. This conductivity followed an Arrhenius relationship, where conductivity increased with temperature. Dielectric studies showed that at low frequencies, the dielectric constant and loss were higher, while both decreased at higher frequencies. DC Wagner’s polarization technique verified that ion transport was the dominant conduction mechanism. Discharge testing of the electrolyte film using a Swagelok cell showed an open-circuit voltage (OCV) of 1.2 V and a short-circuit current (SCC) of 0.42 mA, indicating promising performance for battery applications.

Investment Value Analysis of BYD: An Integrated PEST and Financial Approach

This paper presents a detailed investigation into BYD Company Limited's investment value, incorporating a comprehensive Political, Economic, Social, and Technological (PEST) analysis with an in-depth financial evaluation. Findings from the PEST analysis underscore BYD's adept navigation of supportive government policies and its proactive stance against international trade challenges, affirming its strong domestic market position and readiness for global expansion. Economically, BYD has shown resilience through effective pricing strategies and market diversification, maintaining profitability amidst global financial fluctuations. Socially, the company's alignment with environmental sustainability trends has strengthened its brand and customer loyalty. Technologically, BYD’s advancements in battery technology and electric drivetrains position it as an industry leader. Financial findings highlight a robust year-over-year revenue increase of 42.04%, an impressive gross profit rise by 42.42%, and a significant leap in operating profit by 360.53%. Despite slight contractions in net profit margins, the company’s financial health remains strong with promising prospects for future profitability. Together, these analyses depict BYD as a compelling investment, poised for sustained growth within the NEV sector.

Cooperative V2G-enabled vehicle-to-vehicle sharing in energy and reserve markets: A coalitional approach

The dynamics of electric vehicles (EVs) charging significantly influence the current power system dynamics. However, with advancements in battery technology and charging infrastructure, EVs can also serve as energy storage systems through vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology. This opens up possibilities for novel approaches, such as a coalition-based V2G-enabled vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) energy and reserve sharing mechanism. Unlike traditional transactive energy models that often under-utilize EVs due to mismatches with smaller renewable outputs and peak loads, the proposed cooperative V2V sharing mechanism aims to maximize the use of EVs’ charging and discharging capabilities. It forms a grand coalition of EV users to optimize energy and reserve market participation. The model introduces mathematical formulations to describe how EVs collaborate in both energy and reserve markets. It ensures fairness and stability in pay allocations among users within the cooperative framework. The theoretical foundation includes proof of balance in the coalition approach and a two-stage imputation method to achieve fair and optimal payoff distribution. This minimizes incentives for users to defect from the coalition, ensuring stability. To address scalability challenges inherent in coalition formation problems, a decomposition algorithm is proposed. This algorithm enhances efficiency in solving problems that grow exponentially with the number of users. The effectiveness and superiority of this approach are validated through applications to various community energy systems of different sizes. The proposed plan can increase 22.21% of the total payoff in 10-users case and 22.39% in 30-users case. The computation time scales near-linearly with the number of users, although the computation scales exponentially with it. These demonstrations highlight its capability in modeling and solving complex energy sharing scenarios.

Electric tugboat deployment in maritime transportation: detailed analysis of advantages and disadvantages

Purpose This study aims to provide a comprehensive review of electric tugboat deployment in maritime transportation, including an in-depth assessment of its advantages and disadvantages. Along with the identification of advantages and disadvantages of electric tugboat deployment, the present research also aims to provide managerial insights into the economic viability of different tugboat alternatives that can guide future investments in the following years.Design/methodology/approach A detailed literature review was conducted, aiming to gain broad insights into tugboat operations and focusing on different aspects, including tugboat accidents and safety issues, scheduling and berthing of tugboats, life cycle assessment of diesel tugboats and their alternatives, operations of electric and hybrid tugboats, environmental impacts and others. Moreover, a set of interviews was conducted with the leading experts in the electric tugboat industry, including DAMEN Shipyards and the Port of Auckland. Econometric analyses were performed as well to evaluate the financial viability and economic performance of electric tugboats and their alternatives (i.e. conventional tugboats and hybrid tugboats).Findings The advantages of electric tugboats encompass decreased emissions, reduced operating expenses, improved energy efficiency, lower noise levels and potential for digital transformation through automation and data analytics. However, high initial costs, infrastructure limitations, training requirements and restricted range need to be addressed. The electric tugboat alternative seems to be the best option for scenarios with low interest rate values as increasing interest values negatively impact the salvage value of electric tugboats. It is expected that for long-term planning, the electric and hybrid tugboat alternatives will become preferential since they have lower annual costs than conventional diesel tugboats.Practical implications The outcomes of this research provide managerial insights into the practical deployment of electric tugboats and point to future research needs, including battery improvements, cost reduction, infrastructure development, legislative and regulatory changes and alternative energy sources. The advancement of battery technology has the potential to significantly impact the cost dynamics associated with electric tugboats. It is essential to do further research to monitor the advancements in battery technology and analyze their corresponding financial ramifications. It is essential to closely monitor the industry’s shift toward electric tugboats as their prices become more affordable.Originality/value The maritime industry is rapidly transforming and facing pressing challenges related to sustainability and digitization. Electric tugboats represent a promising and innovative solution that could address some of these challenges through zero-emission operations, enhanced energy efficiency and integration of digital technologies. Considering the potential of electric tugboats, the present study provides a comprehensive review of the advantages and disadvantages of electric tugboats in maritime transportation, extensive evaluation of the relevant literature, interviews with industry experts and supporting econometric analyses. The outcomes of this research will benefit governmental agencies, policymakers and other relevant maritime transportation stakeholders.

Optimizing photovoltaic system configurations for domestic refrigerators in Miliana, Algeria: a simulation study

This study investigates the optimal configuration of a photovoltaic system to operate a home refrigerator with a power consumption of 130 watts. The research focuses on the city of Miliana, Algeria, analyzing the effects of local solar radiation and ambient temperature on battery charging dynamics throughout the year. Using MATLAB simulation techniques, we identified a 450 W solar panel coupled with a 150 Ah battery as the most efficient configuration to meet the power requirements of the refrigerator. Our findings highlight the fast charging capability of this PV system, achieving fast battery charging while maintaining a balance between energy production and consumption. However, we have also determined that increasing battery capacity beyond this limit results in longer charging times, shorter battery life cycles, and higher costs, which are counterproductive to the PV refrigerator-coupled system. The study emphasizes the importance of incorporating local climate conditions into the design of solar energy systems to ensure robust and sustainable energy solutions. The proposed configuration promises to reduce dependence on traditional energy sources, encourage the use of renewable energy in residential environments, and enhance environmental sustainability. Future research should evaluate these configurations in diverse geographic locations to validate and optimize the system for broader application, and explore advanced battery technologies to further improve efficiency and longevity.

Elucidating the Electrochemical Impact of the Calendering Process on Three-Dimensional Designed Electrodes for Lithium-Ion Batteries

Significant advancements in battery technology are imperative to meet the ambitious demands for electromobility and stand-alone energy storage devices. This stems from the need to achieve operations with high energy and power density, coupled with stringent safety standards and extended lifespans, while reducing production and material costs. The preferred energy storage technology for the coming decade is anticipated to remain lithium-ion battery (LIB) technology. The focus on researching high-energy active materials to optimize this technology is paramount. In addition to optimizing materials, significant performance enhancements can be achieved by using electrodes with high mass loading and a multiscale tailored electrode design that can be scaled up to production level.The technological challenges of achieving a breakthrough in gaining simultaneously high energy and power density characteristics while maintaining high process and operational reliability with significant cost savings are the subject of current research and development in the field of LIB technology. To tackle this, the study explores the laser-assisted generation of three-dimensional (3D) electrode architectures and assesses its impact on battery performance and future integration into battery production. The advanced electrode design involves micro and sub-micron structures that can be tailored in various ways, leading to notable improvements in battery lifespan, battery safety, and fast charging and high-power operation capabilities compared to batteries with conventional two-dimensional (2D) electrodes. High-power ultrafast laser ablation emerges as a precise method for introducing such structures.Coordinating the production of 3D electrodes with laser assistance necessitates synchronization with established manufacturing steps in the battery production process. Notably, the calendering of electrodes holds significance due to its substantial influence on the microstructural properties of the electrode material, encompassing porosity, material density, and layer adhesion. The study investigates the impact of laser-induced structuring, encompassing micro-/nano-porosities and microtopography, on electrodes with varying mass loadings ranging from 2mAh/cm² to 6mAh/cm². Electrochemical characteristics such as high-rate capability, fast charging, and cycle lifetime are evaluated accordingly, employing cells with graphite anodes and lithium-nickel-manganese-cobalt oxide cathodes.

(Invited) Carbon in Electrochemical Energy Storage

Carbon materials play a pivotal role in the realm of electrochemical energy storage. Their significance stems from the diverse applications they find based on surface chemistries and morphologies. In batteries, various carbons serve as electrochemical active materials, hosting structures and additives. For instance, fluorinated carbon emerges as an excellent cathode material for primary batteries. Fine-tuning the C/F ratio on cabron surfaces allows customization of the power/energy ratio, catering to specific applications. Graphene, with its ability to self-assemble into hierarchical structures, has proven to be an ideal oxygen electrode. Porous nanocarbon structures are commonly employed to host sulfur, although addressing challenges at the electrode level is imprative for further processing. Carbon additives become essential components in cathode or anode materials for Li-ion batteries. Establishing a continuous electronic conductive network using a minimal amount of carbon in electrodes is a constant pursuit, aiming to reduce parasitic weight at the cell level. This talk wil ldelve into the fundamental roles that carbon play in various systems, such as Li/CFx, Li/O2, Li-S and advanced Li-ion batteries to underscore the crucial role of carbon in advancing battery technologies.

(Invited) Single Crystal Ni-Rich Cathode Materials: Synthesis, Scaleup and Validation

Synthesis of high-performance single crystal Ni-rich NMC, especially when Ni≥0.8, poses a challenge. A conflict exists because as Ni content increase in NMC811, a lower calcination temperature is preferred due to Ni reduction at elevated temperatures, while high temperatures favour single crystal growth.Therefore, molten salt is sometimes employed as the reaction media to promote growth of single crystal NMC811. In general, four approaches for synthesizing of Ni-rich NMC single crystals: molten salt, hydrothermal, direct solid-state synthesis and multi-step lithiation. Molten salt and hydrothermal approaches result in the formation of well-segregated large crystals, but they also increase manufacturing cost. Direct solid-state synthesis, which involves ball milling all precursors together followed by calcination, is a time-saving approach. However, it poses challenge for impurity control due to contamination from milling media, and it can damage the material structure. The calcination of TM(OH)2 precursor with LiOH at very high sintering temperatures forms micron-sized primary particles which, however, still exhibit significantly agglomerated. A post-synthesis milling process is required to break down those NMC811 crystal clusters.This talk will discuss an innovative nanoscale phase separation approach for synthesis of high-performance single crystal NMC811 that is readily adaptable for industry manufacturing. The reaction mechanism of single crystal growth is investigated to understand the synthesis-morphology-performance relationship in growing single crystal NMC811 in the absence of molten salts. The scaled single crystal NMC811 is then further validated in a 2Ah Li-ion pouch cells, demonstrating 1000 stable cycling, confirming the feasibility of this new synthesis approach. This work provides new insights that are broadly applicable for cost-efficient large-scale synthesis of single crystals for different advanced battery technologies to accelerate deep decarbonization process.

Advancements in Li-Ion Battery Safety: A Multiphysics and Deep Learning Approach for Thermal Runaway Prediction

The increasing adoption of Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) in various applications necessitates an enhanced focus on safety, particularly concerning the thermal runaway (TR) phenomenon. This study introduces a novel framework combining multiphysics modeling and deep learning (DL) to predict TR in cylindrical Li-ion batteries. The primary objective is to prevent catastrophic battery failures by identifying critical thermal conditions leading to TR.Our methodology integrates state-of-the-art convolutional neural networks (CNNs) and the "You Only Look Once" (YOLO) object detection model to classify and detect the evolution of TR stages in LIBs. The CNNs, trained on simulated thermal images generated through comprehensive multiphysics modeling, classify TR into three distinct stages: safe operation, critical condition, and actual TR occurrence. The YOLO model further pinpoints the location of TR heat sources, enhancing the predictive accuracy.The multiphysics model employed captures the coupled thermal and electrochemical behavior of LIBs, focusing on the solid electrolyte interface (SEI) formation/decomposition on the anode as the primary degradation mechanism. The simulated thermal imagery, reflecting real-time battery conditions, serves as a dataset for training our DL models. This combination of physics-based and data-driven approaches allows for a detailed understanding of TR dynamics.In our study, we also explored the efficiency of other neural network architectures, notably ResNet, EfficientNet, and MobileNet for their potential in TR prediction. ResNet, known for its deep residual learning framework, demonstrated proficiency in handling the complex, layered features of thermal images. EfficientNet, optimized for efficiency and accuracy, showed promise in its scalable architecture and balanced depth, width, and resolution, making it a viable alternative for real-time TR detection. The MobileNet known for its lightweight architecture and efficiency on mobile devices, was evaluated for its capability to process thermal images in a resource-constrained environment. It demonstrated a remarkable balance between computational efficiency and predictive accuracy, making it a viable option for real-time TR monitoring in portable LIB applications.While MobileNet, ResNet, and EfficientNet each showed potential in their respective capacities, our primary CNN-YOLO framework emerged as the most effective for TR prediction in this study. Its proficiency in extracting spatial features and detecting anomalies in real-time was critical for early TR identification in LIBs.Results demonstrate high accuracy in predicting TR stages and heat source locations, emphasizing the ability of the integrated approach. The study highlights the importance of thermal management and real-time monitoring in LIBs, offering insights into the thermal behavior under various load conditions. The predictive framework not only advances the fundamental understanding of TR in LIBs but also provides practical implications for enhancing battery safety in applications like electric vehicles and consumer electronics.In conclusion, this work presents a significant stride in battery research, paving the way for safer and more reliable energy storage solutions. The combined multiphysics modeling and DL framework offer a robust tool for predicting and preventing TR in LIBs, contributing to the broader goal of advancing battery technology in the modern energy landscape.