On July 7, the University of Cambridge in the UK released a communique revealing that subjecting lithium batteries to appropriate and stable physical pressure can potentially double their lifespan. This breakthrough is anticipated to significantly enhance the battery longevity of electric vehicles (EVs), thereby mitigating the environmental impact stemming from battery disposal and the extraction of critical minerals.

Experimental evidence indicates that the battery operates optimally when subjected to a pressure of around 12.5 bar. Excessive pressure may result in the deposition of metallic lithium on the negative electrode's surface, whereas insufficient pressure can readily cause the positive electrode material to crack. Both scenarios expedite battery degradation.

Researchers are of the opinion that this technology could, in the future, diminish the frequency of battery replacements in EVs, alleviate the strain associated with recycling and disposing of spent batteries, and reduce the demand for mineral resources like nickel and cobalt. Consequently, this would lessen the environmental and social repercussions linked to the extraction of these minerals. This development carries substantial significance for the burgeoning EV market, particularly in the realm of used cars.