Are lithium-ion batteries able to operate under extreme temperature conditions?

Lithium-ion batteries are in increasing demand for operation under extreme temperature conditions due to the continuous expansion of their applications. A significant loss in energy and power densities at low temperatures is still one of the main obstacles limiting the operation of lithium-ion batteries at sub-zero temperatures.

What are the interfacial processes in lithium-ion batteries at low temperatures?

Here, we first review the main interfacial processes in lithium-ion batteries at low temperatures, including Li + solvation or desolvation, Li + diffusion through the solid electrolyte interphase and electron transport.

What is a lithium ion battery?

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) play a vital role in portable electronic products, transportation and large-scale energy storage.

What temperature should a lithium ion battery be operated at?

In addition, special batteries used in military fields and polar expedition should be capable down to −60 °C, and the low-temperature batteries for aerospace applications should be effectively operated under −80 °C (Fig. 1). However, the most suitable working temperature of LIBs is 15–35 °C.

Can high-throughput experiments be used in the research of low-temperature batteries?

Although many efforts have been made in the research of low-temperature batteries, some studies are scattered and cannot provide systematic solutions. In the future study, high-throughput experiments can be used to screen materials and electrolytes suitable for low-temperature batteries.

Why is lithium plating important for low-temperature batteries?

When the dendritic Li penetrates the separator, it will cause short circuit inside the battery, leading to thermal runaway and explosion [147, 148]. Therefore, early detection and prevention of lithium plating is extremely important for low-temperature batteries.