Published in Science · View the paper (DOI)
Researchers observed how tiny metal dendrites sprout inside lithium-ion batteries, causing short-circuits and gradual loss of battery capacity over time. The study sheds light on the mechanical properties of lithium dendrites as they grow, providing new insights into improving battery safety.
Coverage from 3 institutions
- Why do lithium-ion batteries fail? Scientists find clues in microscopic metal 'thorns' New Jersey Institute of Technology · Mar 12, 2026 · first to report
- Designing for hard and brittle lithium needles may lead to safer batteries American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) · Mar 12, 2026
- Thorny issue plaguing lithium-ion batteries laid bare in new study Rice University · Mar 12, 2026