Optimizing Conditions for the Discharging of Lithium-ion Batteries catalyzed by Zinc Powder through Response Surface Methodology

Karlo Isagani A. Mosqueda

Master in Engineering – Chemical Engineering, Professional Schools

University of Mindanao, Matina, Davao City, Philippines

Abstract

This study aims to optimize the discharging process of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) using zinc powder as a catalyst and NaCl solution as an electrolyte through Response Surface Methodology (RSM). Experiments were conducted to examine the effects of NaCl concentration (9.27–22.73%), discharging time (49.77–100.23 minutes), and Zn-NaCl ratio (0.39–2.41%) on key response variables: Percent Voltage Drop (53.42–59.32%), Residual Voltage Percent (40.68–47.79%), and Discharge Rate (0.020–0.038 V/min). A Central Composite Design (CCD) was employed to develop predictive models and analyze variable interactions. Statistical analyses revealed that higher NaCl concentrations, extended discharging times, and moderate Zn powder ratios significantly improved the discharging process, ensuring lower residual voltages and faster discharge rates. Optimal criteria for conditions included 20% NaCl concentration, 90 minutes of discharging, and 2.0% Zn powder ratio, achieving a predicted response (corresponding an actual response in Run 15): 57.197% (56.22%) voltage drop; 42.803% (43.78%) residual voltage; and 0.021 V/min (0.021 V/min) with a desirability of 0.846 or 84.6%). The predicted and actual response values closely align, confirming that the optimized discharging parameters effectively ensure the safe and efficient preparation of LIBs for recycling, minimizing risks posed by residual energy. Future studies could investigate alternative catalysts and assess the scalability of the process for industrial applications.

Keywords

Lithium-ion battery discharging optimization, Lithium-ion Battery Recycling, Response Surface Methodology (RSM), Residual voltage reduction in LIB recycling, Central Composite Design (CCD).

How to cite?

Mosqueda, K. I. (2024). Optimizing Conditions for the Discharging of Lithium-ion Batteries catalyzed by Zinc Powder through Response Surface Methodology. J. Emerging Technol. Innovations, 1(1), 11-43. doi.org/10.55990/umjeti.v12024.02