Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering
Published December 2, 2025 | Version v1
Journal article Metadata-only

Unveiling the Graphite Electrolyte Interphase Evolution under Fast Charging Conditions in Commercial Cells

Creators

  • 1. University of California, San Diego
  • 2. UL Research Institutes
  • 3. University of Chicago

Description

The resurgence of LiFePO4 lithium-ion batteries as a competitive alternative to nickel–cobalt systems for electric vehicle (EV) applications, driven by their superior thermal stability and cycle life, necessitates a thorough understanding of their degradation modes to develop strategies for performance and safety enhancements. This study investigates cycling-induced degradation in 18650 LiFePO4/graphite full cells at varying charge rates. We analyze capacity degradation mechanisms through electrochemical performance, surface and bulk morphology, composition, and structure of both the cathode and anode. Our results reveal that irreversible lithium loss, primarily due to solid-electrolyte interphase formation, dominates at lower charging rates. However, above 4C, graphite electrode degradation is distinct and limited by Li-ion intercalation kinetics. Notably, degradation mechanisms vary not only with charging rate but also spatially across the graphite electrode. This work highlights the degradation mechanisms of commercial LiFePO4/graphite systems under high charge rates, providing insights into critical bottlenecks in lithium-ion battery development for fast-charging applications.

Additional details

Identifiers

DOI
10.1021/acsami.5c17267
Other
oai:uchicago.tind.io:16642

Funding

UL Research Institutes

UChicago Information

Division(s)
Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering