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Updated: Jun 3, 2025

Synthesis of Ionic Liquid Based Electrolytes, Assembly of Li-ion Batteries, and Measurements of Performance at High Temperature
Published on: December 20, 2016
Challenges in extracting and characterizing electrolytes from automotive lithium-ion cells
Sabrina Schönemeier1, Verena Peters2, Fabian Horsthemke2
1University Regensburg, Institute of Analytical Chemistry, Universitätsstrasse 31, 93053, Regensburg, Germany; BMW Group, Battery Cell Competence Center, Lemgostrasse 7, 80935, Munich, Germany.
A new method allows quantitative analysis of lithium-ion cell electrolytes. This technique recovers up to 89% of solvents and 83% of conductive salts, aiding battery degradation studies.
Area of Science:
- Electrochemistry
- Materials Science
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Growing demand for lithium-ion cells in electric vehicles necessitates advanced characterization.
- Electrolyte composition is key to large-format lithium-ion cell performance and longevity.
- Frequent changes in electrode and electrolyte formulations require new analytical methods.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel method for quantitative electrolyte analysis in large-format lithium-ion cells.
- To enable comprehensive characterization of electrolyte components under inert conditions.
Main Methods:
- A novel liquid-liquid extraction method using a specialized chamber for rewound electrodes.
- Extraction of both volatile and nonvolatile electrolyte components.
- Analysis via high-performance liquid chromatography and ion chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization mass spectrometry.
Main Results:
- Successful quantitative electrolyte extraction from large-format cylindrical lithium-ion cells.
- Recovery rates of up to 83% for conductive salts and 89% for solvents.
- Demonstrated application in analyzing a cylindrical lithium-ion cell after formation.
Conclusions:
- The developed method is a crucial tool for mapping electrolyte degradation compounds.
- Provides valuable insights into lithium-ion cell systems.
- Potential to enhance future battery life and performance.
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