Understanding the Application of the Discrete Element Method for Modelling Lithium-ion Batteries in Electric Vehicles: A Critical Review

Lithium-ion batteries are a type of rechargeable battery that uses lithium as a storage and energy generator. These batteries work by transferring lithium ions between a cathode and an anode through an electrolyte, generating energy during discharge and storing lithium during charging. Lithium-ion batteries have transformed the foundations of the world's infrastructure. From energy production to electricity distribution, the transportation of people and goods, and the operation of computing devices and even the internet. This scenario was analysed during the aforementioned conference, where the latest innovations in the battery field—sodium, cobalt-free, and even solid-state batteries—were the main focus of the event. The purpose of this project is the application of the discrete element method (DEM) for the realisation of a particle model based on the electrode material of the lithium-ion batteries in electric cars, trying to solve the main problems they present during charging and discharging, since these directly affect the lifetime of the same. The study concluded that the model developed has reliable foundations that can be implemented and, in turn, improved to obtain more accurate results.