Lithium-ion batteries unavoidably degrade over time, beginning from the very first charge and continuing thereafter. However, while lithium-ion battery degradation is unavoidable, it is not unalterable. Rather, the rate at which lithium-ion batteries degrade during each cycle can vary significantly depending on the operating conditions.
Lithium-ion batteries are immensely popular these days, powering everything from smartphones to laptops to electric cars. But like any other type of battery, they can eventually go bad. Here are a few telltale signs that your lithium-ion battery is on its last legs.
That left less space for the ions to conduct charge, slowly degrading the battery. Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries don’t last forever. Over time, they hold onto less charge, eventually transforming from power sources to bricks. One reason: hidden, leaky hydrogen, new research suggests.
The degradation rate of a Lithium-Ion battery is typically slower than that of other types of batteries. However, there are several factors that can affect the degradation rate, including temperature and how often the battery is used. In general, though, you can expect a Lithium-Ion battery to last for several years before it needs to be replaced.
However, during their operational lifespan, complex degradation mechanisms inside the battery can change its safe operating window, leading to safety accidents. Currently, research efforts are focused on investigating the safety performance of lithium-ion batteries under various operating conditions.
Since this is a known phenomenon, many lithium-ion battery manufacturers will give their batteries a rating according to their cycling-based degradation. For example, a battery may be rated as being able to complete 1,000 full cycles before it degrades from full capacity to 80% capacity.