Oak Ridge Lab’s Innovation Paves the Way for Faster EV Charging

Dew Briefs:

Oak Ridge National Lab researchers have developed a fast-charging, durable lithium-ion battery for EVs. It can recharge 80% in 10 minutes and last for 1,500 charging cycles. This addresses concerns about charging speed and battery lifespan, which were identified as obstacles to EV adoption in a 2023 study. The battery’s electrolyte is made up of LiFSI, LiPF6, and carbonates.

• Researchers from Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed a fast-charging, long-lasting lithium-ion battery for electric vehicles.
• The battery can recharge up to 80% of its capacity in just 10 minutes and can do so for 1,500 charging cycles.
• Charging speeds and battery life are major concerns for potential electric vehicle buyers.
• A study conducted in 2023 found that the high cost of battery replacement and long charging times were barriers to EV adoption.
• The development from Oak Ridge National Laboratory could address these concerns and encourage more people to purchase electric vehicles.
• The high-performance electrolyte used in the battery consists of lithium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide (LiFSI), lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF6), and carbonates.
• A new electrolyte formulation has been developed that triples the Department of Energy’s target for the lifespan of an extreme-fast-charging battery.
• The battery has demonstrated excellent electrochemical stability at a high charging rate of 6C.
• The cost of installing the battery in an electric vehicle and its capacity are still unclear.
• Battery technology is evolving and with more funding and research, electric vehicles (EVs) could surpass internal combustion engine alternatives in the future.
• The transportation sector is responsible for 29% of planet-warming pollution, with light-duty vehicles accounting for 58% of that figure.
• Vehicle pollution contributes to global warming and decreases air quality, leading to health problems.
• Improved battery technology is crucial for reducing vehicle pollution.
• Solid-state batteries being developed by Porsche and Toyota offer greater charging capacity and faster recharging times.
• Chinese automaker JAC Group is utilizing sodium-ion batteries, which are cheaper and avoid the need for mining lithium-ion materials.