The battery

A battery converts chemical energy into electric energy. It powers devices, such as smartphones, portable power tools and cars. Batteries come in various chemistries, shapes and sizes depending on the size and power requirements of the device being powered. It consists of one or more electrochemical cells, which is comprised of two electrodes – an anode and a cathode – and an electrolyte. When the two electrodes are linked by an electrical pathway, electrons flow from the anode and
deliver energy to an external device.

Why Nickel?

Lithium-ion is the most common battery type, however, there are many different formulations. NMC is the most popular cathode which stands for Lithium Nickel Manganese Cobalt Oxide.

During discharge, lithium ions (Li+) migrate from the anode to the cathode through the electrolyte. The NMC cathode serves as the host for these lithium ions. Also, at the cathode the nickel, manganese and cobalt
ions are reduced by accepting the electrons that are passing through the electrical pathway. This reaction can be reversed, making the battery rechargeable.

The secret of NMC lies in combining nickel and manganese.

Nickel is known for its high specific energy but poor stability; manganese has low specific energy but provides stability. Combining these metals enhances each others’ strengths.

This article was first published in our Nickel Magazine VOL 38-3, in December 2023.