1

Lithium-Ion Batteries
By Paige Ney, December 13th, 2019
Background
Batteries are used frequently with the advancements that have been made in technology today.
The science behind batteries is relatively simple; A charge flows from the negative side to the
positive this flow of energy is how batteries power things. A good battery must include a
material that is light and also gives up electrons. A study of Lithium in relation to the battery is
shown here.
Results
Investment in battery technology has been growing for a long time. This is because of pollution
in areas with large populations from fossil fuels produced in factories and from cars. Lithium
was used in tests for batteries but it was dangerous due to its high reactivity, -- the same property
that makes it useful. Under initial tests, the battery would explode due to the interactions
between the positive and negative sides of the battery when being charged. Experimentation with
aluminum in the middle proved to be just the right thing to allow the electrons to pass through
but would prevent explosions. Cobalt oxide was added to increase the battery's energy potential
while retaining relative stability within the lithium. This created the needed balance of energy,
size, and reusability to safety.
Conclusion
Lithium batteries offer a way to have a light rechargeable and non-dangerous source of power.
This has revolutionized technology and the ability to power devices both handheld phones and
portable laptops. It has also been able to reduce emissions through electric-powered machinery
and cars that will have an impact for generations to come.
https://www.nobelprize.org/uploads/2019/10/popular-chemistryprize2019.pdf

Armand, M., Tarascon, J. Building better batteries. ​Nature​ 451, 652–657 (2008) 

doi:10.1038/451652a