Lithium plating, also known as lithium dendrite formation, is a phenomenon that occurs during the charging and discharging of lithium-ion batteries. It refers to the growth of lithium metal crystals on the surface of the anode, which can cause a number of problems such as short-circuiting and capacity loss.
The process of lithium plating begins when the lithium ions in the electrolyte are reduced at the anode, resulting in the formation of lithium metal. As the charging continues, the lithium metal crystals grow and extend into the electrolyte, forming dendrites. These dendrites can eventually reach the cathode and cause a short-circuit, leading to a dangerous thermal runaway reaction.
To prevent lithium plating, several techniques have been developed, including:
- Using a lithium-ion battery with a solid electrolyte instead of a liquid one, which can suppress dendrite growth.
- Utilizing a lithium-ion battery with a lithium-polymer instead of a liquid electrolyte, which can also suppress dendrite growth.
- Modifying the electrode materials or surface coatings to inhibit dendrite growth.
- Using a lithium-ion battery with a separator that has a high mechanical strength and can withstand dendrite penetration.
- Implementing advanced control strategies, such as pulse charging and discharging, to limit the amount of lithium that is plated on the anode.
It is important to note that lithium plating is still a major issue in the development of lithium-ion batteries, and research is ongoing to find more effective ways to prevent it.
Image credit: Spk9264, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
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