Lithium batteries recharge by reversing the flow of electrons and lithium ions within the battery.
Here's a breakdown of the recharging process:
- Reversing the Current: When a lithium battery is discharging (powering a device), electrons flow from the anode (negative electrode) to the cathode (positive electrode) through an external circuit. To recharge, a charger applies a reverse current. According to provided information, applying reverse current allows the battery to recharge itself.
- Electron Movement: The charger forces electrons to flow back from the cathode to the anode.
- Lithium Ion Movement: Simultaneously, lithium ions move from the cathode back to the anode. As described in the reference, the electrons are sent back to the anode and, the lithium ions re-intercalate themselves in the cathode. This restores the battery's capacity.
- Restoring Capacity: This process essentially reverses the discharge process, restoring the battery to its charged state. The lithium ions become re-embedded (intercalated) in the anode material, ready to discharge again.
In summary, recharging a lithium battery involves reversing the electron and lithium-ion flow, returning the battery to its original chemical state.
