Transforming rate capability through self-heating of energy-dense and next-generation batteries

We demonstrate that an energy-dense, 288 Wh kg(-1) lithium-ion battery can provide 152 Wh kg(-1) energy and 1056 W kg(-1) power at ultralow temperatures such as -40 or -50 degrees C, contrary to virtually no performance expected under two simultaneous extremes: 4.04 mAh cm(-2) cathode loading and -40 degrees C. Unleashing this huge potential of current battery materials is achieved through a self-heating structure by embedding a micron-thin nickel foil in the electrochemical energy storage cell. The heating process from -40 to 10 degrees C consumes only 5.1% of battery energy and takes 77 s. Further, based on the chemistry agnostic nature of self-heating, we present a generic chart to transform rate capability of lithium-ion and lithium metal batteries. These illustrative examples point to a new era of battery structure innovation, significantly broadening the performance envelopes of existing and emerging battery materials for electrified transportation.

Automated summary

By utilizing a self-heating structure, the huge potential of current battery materials can be unleashed to provide high energy and power performance in extreme low-temperature conditions. The heating process efficiently increases the battery temperature with minimal energy consumption. The chemistry-agnostic nature of self-heating can enhance the rate capability of lithium-ion and lithium metal batteries, expanding the performance envelopes of battery materials for electrified transportation.