Studying Break-in Phenomena in Lithium-Ion Batteries through Acoustic and Impedance Measurements

Lithium-Ion Batteries (LiBs) have become ubiquitous in modern technologies, such as in the burgeoning electric vehicle and consumer electronics markets. After manufacturing the LiB, a period of “break-in” occurs wherein the battery experiences rapid changes in properties, such as capacity [1] and stress [2], before leveling off to a stable value. Most research in LiBs analyze the full cycle life of the battery and have little regard for the initial break-in period. However, understanding and controlling break-in conditions could determine future performance of the cell. In this study, we use electrochemical acoustic and impedance spectroscopy measurements to analyze break-in of LiBs. We further analyze how break-in conditions, such as varying the rate of current, affect the overall performance of the battery. [1] Hong, Jong‐Sung, et al. "Electrochemical‐calorimetric studies of lithium‐ion cells." Journal of the Electrochemical Society 145.5 (1998): 1492 [2] Liu, Xinyi M., and Craig B. Arnold. "Effects of Cycling Ranges on Stress and Capacity Fade in Lithium-Ion Pouch Cells." Journal of The Electrochemical Society 163.13 (2016): A2501-A2507.