Optimised graphite microstructure prevents lithium plating in EV batteries

The research was led by Dr Xuekun Lu from Queen Mary University of London in collaboration with an international team of researchers from the UK and USA. Their findings are detailed in Nature Communications.  

Lithium plating can occur in lithium-ion batteries during fast charging; the lithium ions accumulate on the surface of the battery's negative electrode instead of intercalating into it, forming a layer of metallic lithium that continues growing. This can damage the battery, shorten its lifespan, and cause short circuits that can lead to fire and explosion. 

According to Dr Xuekun Lu, lithium plating can be significantly mitigated by optimising the microstructure of the graphite negative electrode. The graphite negative electrode is made up of randomly distributed tiny particles, and fine-tuning the particle and electrode morphology for a homogeneous reaction activity and reduced local lithium saturation is the key to suppress lithium plating and improve the battery's performance.