New Analytical Methods for Longer-Lasting Lithium-ion Batteries

Cover Page Electrophoresis - How can the lithium-ion battery (LIB) be further improved? To answer this question, MEET scientists around Lenard Hanf developed new methods for capillary electrophoresis. For the first time, this enables a detailed analysis of the transition metal dissolution from LIB cathode materials or the current collector - such as manganese or copper. Read more. The investigation of dissolved manganese species (Mn2+ and Mn3+) in lithium ion batteries with the newly developed method for capillary electrophoresis helps to better understand the dissolution mechanisms of manganese containing cathodes - New method delivers previously unknown results. Transition metal dissolution in the electrolyte leads to a loss of capacity and thus reduces the lifespan of the LIB. Until now, suitable methods to determine the oxidation state of several dissolved transition metals simultaneously have been missing. In addition, their analysis is still a young field of research.