Recent research reveals that charging lithium-ion batteries at high currents during their first charge cycle can significantly improve lifespan, though conventional wisdom advises lower currents for regular charging.
Key Findings
- Initial High-Current Charging: A SLAC-Stanford study demonstrated that a high-current “jump-start” during the first charge increased average lifespan by 50% and reduced initial charging time from 10 hours to 20 minutes. This method deactivated 30% of lithium ions upfront (vs. 9% with standard methods), optimizing electrode structure for long-term performance.
- Regular Charging Best Practices:
- Optimal Current: For daily use, 0.2C (e.g., 0.2 x battery capacity in Ah) is recommended to balance speed and longevity.
- Voltage Management: Reducing peak charge voltage by 0.1V/cell (e.g., 4.10V instead of 4.20V) doubles cycle life but lowers capacity by ~10% per 70mV reduction.
- Partial Charging: Mid-state-of-charge cycling (e.g., 30–80%) minimizes stress and prolongs lifespan.
Trade-offs
- High-Current Risks: Sustained high currents beyond the first charge may induce heat-related degradation.
- Capacity vs. Longevity: Lower voltages (e.g., 3.92V/cell) maximize cycle life but reduce usable capacity.
In summary, strategic high-current application during initial charging shows promise for lifespan enhancement, while moderate currents and voltage management remain critical for daily use.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/can-charging-lithium-ion-batteries-at-high-currents-improve-their-lifespan/
