How is CATL making “zero degradation” batteries?
CATL and Yutong’s collaboration has yielded LFP batteries boasting a lifespan of up to 15 years, with “zero” degradation for the first 1000 cycles
CATL’s new 6.25 MWh ESS boasts a 30 % increase in energy density with a 20 % smaller footprint and claims “zero” degradation for the first 5 years
With each cycle, a small number of Li ions become trapped or lost, akin to a bucket with a slow leak – known as the loss of lithium inventory (LLI), gradually diminishes the battery’s capacity
“The Suspect: Sacrificial Lambs – Cathode Additives”
Li5FeO4 (LFO), emerges as a promising candidate for the cathode additive role.
boasts a remarkably high theoretical capacity 867 mAh/g, translating to over 700 mAh/g in practical use for storing lithium ions
unlike the main cathode material, LFO releases its lithium ions permanently, transforming into an inactive material, amorphous LiFeO2 upon fulfilling its purpose
can be easily mixed with LFP cathode powder in the cathode slurry result in uniform coating
How LFO Works:
we lack direct confirmation, circumstantial evidence points towards LFO
Dynanonic – CATL started recently manufacturing material – stated that incorporating 1.5 % to 2 % of cathode additives in the battery system could boost energy density by up to 5 %, while an addition of 3 % to 4 % could nearly double the cycling life