Lithium-ion batteries have been the subject of constant research, thanks in part to their major role in transitioning to an increasingly electric world. Now, as part of these efforts, researchers from Dalhousie University in Halifax, Canada, have discovered a new cost-effective solution to enhance the lifespan of batteries.
As per the report, researchers found that the polyethylene terephthalate (PET) tape, which holds all the battery components together, is prone to dissolve to its monomer dimethyl terephthalate due to the chemical reactions in the battery. This not only decreases battery capacity over time but also leads to significant charge loss during idle periods.
What is the solution?
Led by PhD student Anu Adamson, the research team focused on replacing the polyethylene terephthalate (PET) tape with polypropylene (PP) tape as the binding material for battery cell assembly. And the results were nothing short of impressive, showing not only a 10% increase in battery performance but also a remarkable 70% reduction in self-discharge.
“Nobody, I think, thought that it could be the tape. This is the first time we’ve seen that something that is generally regarded as very inactive in batteries,” said Anu Adamson.
Possible impact
While this research still needs to be verified, the fact that polypropylene (PP) tape costs almost the same as the commonly used polyethylene terephthalate (PET) tape could prove to be a game changer in the electronics field. The potential to significantly enhance battery life and reduce self-discharge, coupled with its cost-effectiveness, could prompt major brands to quickly adopt polypropylene (PP) tape, thereby extending the lifespan of new devices.
“This is really incredibly nice chemical detective work … And it takes a very talented student to do this type of thing — to recognize all the connections between the various things that are going on in a battery and come up with this idea is incredibly impressive,” said professor Jeff Dahn.
2023-10-02 15:06:12