Cambridge University researchers say applying a steady physical pressure of about 12.5 bar can roughly double lithium‑ion cell life in lab tests; pressure above that promotes lithium plating on the anode, while too little pressure causes cathode cracking, both accelerating degradation. Authors say the method could extend EV battery service life, reduce battery scrappage and recycling strain, and lower demand for critical minerals such as nickel and cobalt — implications for mining supply, EV res

Cambridge University researchers say applying a steady physical pressure of about 12.5 bar can roughly double lithium‑ion cell life in lab tests; pressure above that promotes lithium plating on the anode, while too little pressure causes cathode cracking, both accelerating degradation. Authors say the method could extend EV battery service life, reduce battery scrappage and recycling strain, and lower demand for critical minerals such as nickel and cobalt — implications for mining supply, EV residual values and used‑car market dynamics.