Secondary batteries, also called rechargeable batteries or storage
batteries, are used in many devices, ranging from portable electronics
to automobiles. Secondary batteries are the key component in energy
security and the realization of a low-carbon and resilient society. For
example, high-performance secondary batteries are indispensable
for electric automobiles, power storage of renewable energies, load
leveling of electric power lines, base stations for mobile phones, and
emergency power supply in hospitals.
Extensive efforts are being undertaken to develop nextgeneration secondary batteries, with higher performance in terms of energy density, specific power, charge/discharge efficiency,
operating voltage, cycle durability, safety, and reduced cost. A
detailed understanding of various phenomena that take place in
secondary batteries is required for developing higher-performance
batteries.
Among various types of secondary batteries, a lithium-ion
battery is most widely used due to its high energy density, small
memory effect, and low self-discharge rate. This book is intended
for students, young researchers, and engineers as an introduction to
lithium-ion batteries, with emphasis on diagnostics and simulation
of lithium ions in the batteries