Materials insights into low-temperature performances of lithium-ion batteries

• Discusses main limitations of low-temperature performances for lithium batteries.
• Reviews methodology for improving low-temperature lithium batteries.
• Analyzes advanced materials for low-temperature lithium battery performances.

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have been employed in many fields including cell phones, laptop computers, electric vehicles (EVs) and stationary energy storage wells due to their high energy density and pronounced recharge ability. However, energy and power capabilities of LIBs decrease sharply at low operation temperatures. In particular, the charge process becomes extremely sluggish at temperatures below −20 °C, which severely limits the applications of LIBs in some cold areas during winter. Extensive research has shown that the electrolyte/electrode composition and microstructure are of fundamental importance to low-temperature performances of LIBs. In this report, we review the recent findings in the role of electrolytes, anodes, and cathodes in the low temperature performances of LIBs. Our overview aims to understand comprehensively the fundamental origin of low-temperature performances of LIBs from a materials perspective and facilitates the development of high-performance lithium-ion battery materials that are operational at a large range of working temperatures.

Low operation temperatures impede all the key steps of Li+ transport between anodes and cathodes. An overview on main limitations of low temperature performance for lithium-ion batteries is presented. Following the discussion on improving the low-temperature performances of the electrolytes and the electrodes, we conclude by providing prospectives on possible future development of advanced materials for realizing applicable low-temperature performance of lithium-ion batteries.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide