Scientists have linked solid-state battery (SSB) failure to mechanical fatigue, offering potential for longer battery lifetimes.
SSBs use solid ceramic electrolytes, which are safer and longer-lasting than liquid electrolytes in conventional batteries.
However, solid electrolytes are prone to dendrite growth, where lithium ions form filaments on the anode, causing short circuits.
The researchers studied the anode-electrolyte interface using electron microscopy to observe dendrite growth.
They found that repeated charging and discharging cycles cause fatigue in the lithium anode, leading to structural defects and dendrite formation.
The study suggests that cyclic loading and unloading of the anode, similar to how metal materials fatigue, may be responsible for SSB failures.
The findings could help improve battery models and predict failures more accurately, although manufacturing methods may not change significantly.
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