Multi-method characterization of a commercial 1.2 Ah sodium-ion battery cell indicates drop-in potential

This study presents a multi-method characterization of a commercial 1.2 Ah 18650 sodium-ion battery cell. Many characterization methods used for lithium-ion batteries can be applied to sodium-ion-based cells. Analytical methods, such as ICP-OES and EDX measurements, are in good agreement with the XRD experiment and show high shares of Fe and Mn within the Mn/Fe/Ni-based layered oxide cathode. This enables a low-cost sodium-ion battery. Mercury porosimetry reveals high porosities. Electrical characterization highlights the high-power capabilities of this cell as well as an acceptable transferability of diagnostic algorithms. Despite higher charging currents having no detrimental effect on capacity retention, excessive electrolyte decomposition triggers the cell's current interrupt device, preventing a profound lifetime analysis. This early commercial sodium-ion cell is a low-cost solution for high-power applications. Overall, the characterization of a commercial 1.2 Ah 18650 sodium-ion battery cell benefits from the established methods for characterization of lithium-ion battery.