New Method Developed to Reduce Costs in Electric Vehicle Batteries
A team at Cornell University has announced the DEER technology, which renews lithium-ion battery electrodes by directly cleaning them.
Researchers at Cornell University have developed an innovative technique called DEER, which makes it possible to directly reuse lithium-ion batteries without breaking them down into their raw materials.
Working Principle of the DEER Method
Researchers at Cornell University have developed a new method that could enable the reuse of entire lithium-ion batteries without breaking them down into their raw materials.
This special technique, called Direct Electrode-to-Electrode Regeneration, aims to directly renew the electrodes in worn-out batteries.
SEI Layer and Cleaning Process
As they are used, the SEI layer formed on the electrode surface thickens, hindering the movement of ions and electrons and reducing the energy capacity of the battery.
Researchers eliminate this thickening layer by cleaning used battery electrodes with a special chemical solution called DMI.
Test Results and Cost Advantage
Laboratory tests have determined that cells renewed using the DEER method recovered up to 95 percent of their original capacities.
It is calculated that this approach could reduce the cost of recycled cells down to $15.25 per kilogram.
Limitations and Scope of the Method
This newly developed technique is effective in cells where capacity loss primarily stems from SEI accumulation.
In cases of lithium loss, cracked particles, structural damage, or mechanical failures, traditional methods will still be needed.