What is the humidity affection on Lithium Battery

Humidity can affect lithium - ion batteries in several ways, mainly influencing their performance, lifespan, and safety. Here is a detailed analysis:

Electrical conductivity: High - humidity environments can cause moisture to condense on the surface of the battery. This moisture can form a thin film that may increase the electrical conductivity between the battery terminals or within the battery pack if it seeps inside. This unwanted conductivity can lead to self - discharge, causing the battery to lose its charge over time even when not in use. In extreme cases, it can also lead to short - circuits, which can damage the battery and affect its ability to provide a stable power output.

Chemical reactions: Humidity can introduce water molecules into the battery's internal environment. Even a small amount of water can participate in unwanted chemical reactions. For example, water can react with the electrolyte or the electrode materials, altering the chemical composition and properties of these components. This can lead to a decrease in the efficiency of the electrochemical reactions that occur during charging and discharging, resulting in a reduction in the battery's overall performance, such as a decrease in capacity and a lower output voltage.

Corrosion of components: In a humid environment, the metal components of the battery, such as the terminals and the current collectors, are more prone to corrosion. Corrosion can cause the formation of oxide layers on the surface of these metal parts, which increases the electrical resistance. As a result, more heat is generated during charging and discharging, and the increased resistance also leads to a decrease in the battery's efficiency. Over time, this can accelerate the degradation of the battery and shorten its lifespan.

Degradation of electrode materials: The presence of moisture can accelerate the degradation of the electrode materials. For example, some electrode materials may absorb water, which can cause swelling or structural changes in the material. These changes can affect the diffusion of lithium - ions in the electrode during charging and discharging, reducing the battery's capacity and cycle life. Additionally, the reaction between water and the electrode materials can lead to the formation of by - products that can further deteriorate the performance of the battery over time.

Gas evolution: When water enters the battery and reacts with the electrolyte or other components, it can produce gases such as hydrogen. The accumulation of these gases inside the battery can increase the internal pressure. If the pressure exceeds the safety limit of the battery casing, it can cause the battery to rupture or even explode, posing a serious safety hazard.

Fire and explosion risk: In the presence of moisture, the risk of a short - circuit or an internal electrical fault in the battery is increased. If a short - circuit occurs, it can generate heat, and if the heat is not dissipated properly, it can lead to thermal runaway. Thermal runaway can cause the battery to catch fire or explode, especially in a confined or poorly ventilated space. Moreover, the presence of moisture can also affect the performance of the battery's safety mechanisms, such as the pressure - relief valves and the thermal fuses, reducing their effectiveness in preventing dangerous situations.

WHAT IS THE HUMIDITY AFFECTION ON LITHIUM BATTERY