Battery aging (also referred to as battery degradation) describes the gradual loss of performance and capacity in a battery over time due to chemical, mechanical, and thermal processes that occur during its usage and storage. This is a key factor limiting the lifespan, efficiency, and safety of batteries in electric vehicles (EVs), consumer electronics, and energy storage systems (ESS).
Causes of Battery Aging:
Calendar Aging: Degradation over time due to chemical side reactions, even when the battery is not in use
Cycle Aging: Wear from repeated charging and discharging
Electrochemical Side Reactions: Such as solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) growth, lithium plating, or gas formation
Mechanical Stress: Electrode swelling, cracking, or separator degradation
Thermal Effects: Exposure to high or low temperatures accelerates degradation
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