Researchers discover a simple way to make batteries last much longer

Scientists at the SLAC-Stanford Battery Center have discovered a way to significantly increase the durability and lifespan of rechargeable batteries. In their research paper, which was published in the French journal Joule, they explain how this new process works.

Start it off with high charge current

In this study, lithium-ion batteries were given high-formation charge currents immediately after production in order to test what effect this would have on the service life of the batteries.

The result? Battery cycle life was extended by an average of 50 percent, with some extended by up to 70 percent, and the charging process only took 20 minutes instead of 10 hours.

According to the researchers, the increased battery lifespan is due to changes that occur in the battery electrodes. While this method leads to a high loss of the lithium contained within the battery, it simultaneously forms a protective layer around the negative battery electrode, leading to better performance and a longer service life.

The principle is similar to the process used for fast charging in modern phones, where a higher voltage is used to move lithium ions faster from one electrode to the other (but the lithium loss is notably less significant in the fast charging process).

Related: Does fast charging hurt your phone battery?

It’s a great opportunity for the industry

These findings should be of particular interest for manufacturers of high-performance batteries, whether in electric vehicles or laptops. Further tests and studies could reveal more ways to improve the performance of normal batteries or even lead to new types of fast charging.

Until we reach the point of mass production, though, we’ll have to make do with our current battery lifespans — and support our devices with portable chargers and power banks when capacities deteriorate.

Further reading: The best power banks and portable chargers