What is NREL's battery lifespan research?

NREL’s battery lifespan researchers are developing tools to diagnose battery health, predict battery degradation, and optimize battery use and energy storage system design.

How do you extend the life of a rechargeable battery?

Implementing the following strategies can help extend the life of rechargeable batteries: Avoid Deep Discharges: Whenever possible, avoid deep discharges of the battery. Shallow discharges, where the battery is not completely depleted, tend to result in longer cycle life.

How does battery quality affect the life of a battery?

High charge and discharge rates generate more heat and chemical stress within the battery, potentially reducing its lifespan. Quality of the Battery: The quality of the battery itself, including the manufacturing process and materials used, can significantly affect cycle life. Higher-quality batteries tend to have longer lifespans.

How long does a battery cycle last?

The duration of one cycle on a battery can vary significantly depending on the specific application and usage patterns. In some cases, a cycle might represent a single charge and discharge cycle that occurs within a few hours, such as in a smartphone.

When does a battery reach the end of its life cycle?

Typically, manufacturers consider a battery to have reached the end of its usable life when its capacity has degraded to around 80% of its initial rating. Determining the actual battery life cycle requires conducting controlled testing and monitoring its performance over time.

What factors affect battery life cycle?

The calculation of battery life cycle is a complex process that involves various factors, including battery chemistry, depth of discharge (DOD), charge and discharge rates, and environmental conditions. Each battery type has its own unique set of parameters that affect its cycle life.