Correlating Self-Discharge and Cycling Performance of Batteries to Fasten Electrolytes Development

The development of next-generation batteries with high energy density requires the use of novel electrode materials with high specific energy density such as lithium metal anode, silicon anode, high-Ni LiNi_xMn_yCo_zO₂ cathode, and sulfur cathode. The stability of these materials and their poor compatibility with conventional electrolytes limit their application, and developing novel electrolytes is one of the most promising strategies to tackle the challenge. The current electrolyte development highly relies on expert knowledge and expertise through a trial-and-error approach, which is very time-consuming. Machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) approaches have attracted attention to accelerating the process. However, gathering high-quality data from experimental procedures to train ML models is a laborious process, especially when the problem statements cross over to device-level applications. Here, we find a strong correlation between the self-discharge behavior of lithium-metal batteries and their cycling aging performance. As the self-discharge measurement can be done within a few days compared to months for cycling tests, the finding provides a strategy to collect high-quality data in a short period that can be used as input for ML and AI approaches for developing advanced electrolytes in next-generation batteries.