Researchers have developed a magnetic sensor-based system to identify lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) by analyzing their internal structures and current paths.
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Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) power nearly every aspect of modern life, from smartphones and laptops to electric vehicles. However, the growing use of non-original equipment manufacturer (OEM) batteries as cheaper alternatives has raised significant safety concerns, including fires and other incidents. As LIB shapes have become standardized, visually distinguishing OEM batteries from counterfeits is now nearly impossible. While tools like certification marks, QR codes, and IC chips are used to identify genuine products, these measures are increasingly vulnerable to duplication. This has underscored the need for a more reliable, intrinsic method to verify authenticity.
Researchers at the University of Tsukuba have stepped up to this challenge by adapting a magnetic sensing technology originally developed for detecting fuel cell failures. In their latest breakthrough, they applied this method to LIBs, creating a system that uses magnetic sensors to detect differences in the batteries' internal structures and current paths. By simply attaching a magnetic sensor to the exterior of a battery, the system measures the magnetic field generated during charging and discharging, providing a clear identification. This innovative approach can differentiate between individual cells and even multiple batteries connected in series.
Looking ahead, the researchers aim to refine the system further to identify batteries integrated within complete modules. They also plan to enhance its capabilities to distinguish batteries with identical structures or those that have undergone deterioration. If successful, this groundbreaking technology could revolutionize battery safety and reliability, offering a robust solution for one of the most pressing challenges in the energy storage industry.
Journal Reference:
Eto, A., et al. (2025) Evaluation of lithium-ion batteries with different structures using magnetic field measurement for onboard battery identification. Green Energy and Intelligent Transportation. doi.org/10.1016/j.geits.2025.100257.