Review Examines Nondestructive Diagnostic Methods for Lithium-Ion Battery Health and Safety

A recent review published in the Journal of Zhejiang University–SCIENCE A evaluates current methodologies for monitoring the internal state of lithium-ion batteries. The research examines how various sensing technologies and data-driven algorithms can identify degradation mechanisms, such as electrolyte decomposition and particle cracking. By analyzing surface-attached, implantable, and noncontact sensors, the study provides a framework for transitioning battery management systems from reactive monitoring to predictive, mechanism-informed health diagnostics for electric vehicles and grid storage applications.

The shift toward internal battery diagnostics addresses the limitations of conventional battery management systems that rely solely on external voltage, current, and surface temperature measurements. These external signals are frequently subject to delays and distortions, often failing to detect internal chemical and mechanical changes until significant degradation or safety issues have occurred. By integrating data from multiple sources—including internal sensors and noncontact imaging—the proposed framework aims to provide a more accurate assessment of a battery's state-of-health and remaining useful life. This systemic approach is intended to facilitate more precise control over fast-charging protocols and to enable the early detection of conditions that precede thermal runaway or other failure modes.

For the broader energy industry, this research highlights the importance of co-designing hardware sensors with diagnostic software algorithms to improve battery reliability. Implementing these technologies requires addressing practical challenges related to manufacturing compatibility, long-term sensor stability, and data standardization. As electric transportation and stationary storage sectors expand, the ability to monitor internal cell conditions in real time could enhance fleet-level maintenance and safety protocols. The transition from indirect external observation to direct internal perception represents a technical evolution in how battery systems are managed, potentially extending the operational life of cells and improving the predictability of performance across diverse, high-demand applications.