Norwegian Scientists Develop Self-Healing Battery for Electric Vehicles

【PCauto】Recent research news from Norway has drawn market’s attention: the Norwegian institute SINTEF (Foundation for Industrial and Technological Research) is developing a new type of electric vehicle battery with a "self-healing" function. This innovative breakthrough is expected to significantly improve key performance metrics for electric vehicles, including range, charging time, and lifespan.

The electric vehicle industry currently faces numerous bottlenecks, particularly due to limitations in battery technology. Issues such as insufficient range, lengthy charging times, and short lifespans of traditional lithium-ion batteries have not only dampened consumers’ enthusiasm but have also restricted the further expansion of the entire industry. However, the newly developed battery by Norwegian scientists offers a potential solution to these challenges.

Structurally, the new battery is similar to traditional batteries and is likened to a "sandwich" design; however, its uniqueness lies in the innovative improvements made to the materials used. For the cathode material, a cobalt-free lithium manganese nickel oxide is utilized, with lower nickel and lithium content compared to conventional batteries. This adjustment of chemical composition brings several advantages, increasing the average voltage of the battery, significantly shortening charging times, and enhancing overall battery performance. Additionally, the new battery can store more energy within a smaller volume.

For the anode material, this battery employs a silicon-graphite composite. Many battery companies worldwide, including U.S. startups like Amprius, Group14, and Sila Nanotechnologies, are exploring silicon anode technology to address energy losses associated with traditional graphite anodes. Silicon anodes tend to expand during charging and discharging, a challenge that has hindered their widespread adoption.

However, the new Norwegian battery effectively improves this issue by combining silicon with graphite, resulting in a more stable and durable anode, thus improving the overall lifespan of the battery.

Notably, this battery features a “self-healing” function. It incorporates a special material similar to "super glue" that can repair minor damages to the battery cells, akin to self-sealing tires. This feature not only enhances the safety of the battery and reduces the risk of accidents caused by battery failures but also minimizes performance degradation resulting from battery damage, further safeguarding the range. In Southeast Asia's climate, where high temperatures and humidity can easily damage batteries, the self-healing capability of this new battery ensures that electric vehicles can operate reliably in such challenging environments.

Currently, the SINTEF team has initiated plans for mass production, although they face numerous challenges in transitioning from laboratory development to large-scale manufacturing.