Oven exposure testing in Li-ion cells

'Oven exposure testing' is a common method used to evaluate the thermal performance of lithium-ion cells. This test involves exposing the cells to high temperatures in a controlled environment, typically between 60 and 150 degrees Celsius, for a specified period of time.

The purpose of this test is to simulate the extreme temperatures that a lithium-ion cell may experience in real-world conditions and to assess its ability to withstand such conditions without suffering damage.

During the test, the cells are placed in an oven and the temperature is gradually increased until it reaches the desired level. The cells are then maintained at this temperature for a set period of time, typically between 1 and 24 hours. During this time, the cells are monitored for signs of thermal runaway, such as swelling, leakage, or combustion.

One of the most important aspects of oven exposure testing is the selection of the appropriate temperature and duration. The test conditions should be chosen based on the intended application of the cell and the expected operating conditions. For example, a cell that will be used in a high-temperature environment, such as a vehicle battery, should be tested at a higher temperature than a cell that will be used in a low-temperature environment, such as a consumer electronic device.

Additionally, the test should be designed to provide information about the cell's performance under different thermal conditions. For example, a test at a high temperature for a short duration may provide information about the cell's thermal stability, while a test at a lower temperature for a longer duration may provide information about the cell's thermal cycling performance.

Oven exposure testing can provide valuable information about the thermal performance of lithium-ion cells, but it is important to keep in mind that it does not fully replicate real-world conditions. Therefore, it should be used in conjunction with other testing methods, such as battery abuse testing, to provide a comprehensive evaluation of a cell's performance.