Lithium-Ion Battery Regeneration: Possibility and Methods

Lithium-ion battery regeneration is the process of recovering battery performance. Generally, lithium-ion batteries degrade over time with use, resulting in reduced charging capacity. However, in some cases, partial recovery of battery performance is possible. Here, we explain the possibilities and methods of battery regeneration.

1. Methods for Lithium-Ion Battery Regeneration

(1) Battery Cell Balancing

▶ Explanation:
Cell imbalance within the battery is a major cause of performance degradation. When multiple cells maintain different voltages, the Battery Management System (BMS) activates protection functions, which can lower battery performance.

▶ Solution:
Cell balancing ensures that each cell is charged evenly.
This can be done by resetting the BMS or using specialized equipment to balance the cells.
Some battery management systems have automatic cell balancing features, but manual balancing may be required in some cases.

(2) Battery Charging Management

▶ Explanation:
Overcharging or over-discharging drastically shortens battery life. Charging within the 20-80% range helps extend battery lifespan.

▶ Solution:
Avoid overcharging and do not charge to 100% frequently.
Also, prevent the battery from discharging to 0%.

(3) Battery Refresh (Discharge and Recharge)

▶ Explanation:
Occasionally fully discharging and then fully charging the battery helps stabilize cell voltage. This can aid in battery regeneration but doing it too often may shorten battery life.

▶ Solution:
Try full discharge and full recharge occasionally to recalibrate cell voltage.
It is best to perform this only every few months, not regularly.

(4) Battery Temperature Management

▶ Explanation:
Lithium-ion batteries are sensitive to temperature. Extreme heat or cold drastically reduces performance.

▶ Solution:
Avoid exposing the battery to high temperatures (direct sunlight, hot environments) or very cold places.
Store the battery in a warm place during winter and avoid overheating in summer.

(5) Battery Refill or Replacement

▶ Explanation:
If some cells are defective or worn out, battery performance drops significantly. In this case, refilling or replacing cells may be necessary.

▶ Solution:
Battery refill: Replacing cells inside the existing battery to restore capacity. However, compatibility with the BMS and costs may be issues.
Battery replacement: If most cells are defective or regeneration is difficult, replacing the entire battery is the best option.

2. Limitations of Lithium-Ion Battery Regeneration

Lithium-ion batteries have a chemical lifespan and cannot be fully regenerated. Especially when internal chemical or mechanical damage is severe, regeneration is impossible. Defective cells may continue to cause problems.

Limitations:

• Capacity loss due to chemical aging cannot be fully recovered.

• Severe damage from over-discharge or overcharge is hard to fix.

• Performance recovery after regeneration may be temporary, eventually requiring replacement.

3. Precautions

Battery regeneration should be done with professional assistance.
Lithium-ion batteries can be hazardous if mishandled, potentially causing fire or explosion.
If the battery is unusable, it must be safely disposed of through recycling centers.

Conclusion:

Complete regeneration of heavily degraded lithium-ion batteries is difficult. However, temporary performance recovery can be attempted through battery management, cell balancing, charging control, and refreshing methods. Ultimately, replacement is the best solution when the battery’s lifespan ends.