News / Science News

    Engineers use electrolyte to create high-capacity batteries that operate in extreme temperatures

    Engineers at the University of California San Diego have developed a reliable lithium-ion battery that functions in extreme cold and heat. The team created an electrolyte that allows electrical currents to flow through the battery even in extreme conditions. The advance in battery technology could result in more efficient batteries that can better withstand harsh temperatures.



    Engineers used an electrolyte to develop a battery that performs well in extreme cold and heat. Photo: David Baillot/UC San Diego Jacobs School of Engineering


    "You need high temperature operation in areas where the ambient temperature can reach the triple digits and the roads get even hotter,” explained Zheng Chen, senior author of the study.

    “In electric vehicles, the battery packs are typically under the floor, close to these hot roads. Also, batteries warm up just from having a current run through during operation. If the batteries cannot tolerate this warmup at high temperature, their performance will quickly degrade."

    When the team tested the batteries at temperatures ranging from -40 to 122 degrees Fahrenheit, the prototype retained almost 80% to more than 115% capacity.

    The team used a liquid solution of dibutyl ether mixed with a lithium salt to make the electrolyte.

    The electrolyte solution binds to lithium ions with a loose grip, allowing the electrolyte molecules to easily release lithium ions, making the battery operable in extreme temperatures.

    The team plans to optimize the technology to perform under more extreme conditions and extend the battery technology's lifecycle. (U.S. National Science Foundation)

    AUGUST 2, 2022



    YOU MAY ALSO LIKE

    Reducing nitrogen oxides emitted by vehicles and industries could significantly improve crop yields in major agricultural countries like China and India, according to a new analysis based on satellite imagery.
    Long-term study of kelp forest dynamics highlights the critical role of sea urchin behavior.
    Scientists discover the industrial boom's impact on climate change.
    Agent can detoxify harmful aldehydes in wastewater.
    Secrets held in 1.2 billion-year-old groundwater deep in a gold and uranium mine.
    New research involving the University of Cambridge shows that prehistoric megatooth sharks — the biggest sharks that ever lived — were the ultimate top predators, operating higher up the food chain than any other marine predators through history.

    © 1991-2023 The Titi Tudorancea Bulletin | Titi Tudorancea® is a Registered Trademark | Terms of use and privacy policy
    Contact