Cleaning Lithium Electrolytes from Aluminum

Q: What do you recommend for cleaning lithium electrolytes / lithium salts from aluminum?

A: We would recommend Citranox® Liquid Acid Cleaner and Detergent or Liquinox® Critical Cleaning Liquid Detergent at 2% for these types of residues.  We would go with the acidic Citranox if the aluminum is not anodized and/or is freshly abraded.  If there is a need for automated cleaning via a washer, we would look toward low foaming Citrajet® Low-Foam Liquid Acid Cleaner/Rinse.

Understanding Lithium Electrolytes in Batteries

Lithium electrolytes are a critical component in the operation of lithium-based batteries, including the widely used lithium-ion batteries. These electrolytes facilitate the movement of lithium ions between the anode and cathode during the charging and discharging processes, enabling the battery to store and release energy effectively.

The electrolytes typically consist of lithium salts, such as lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF6), dissolved in a solvent or solvent mixture. These salts and solvents are chosen for their high ionic conductivity, thermal stability, and compatibility with other battery materials.

Common Challenges with Lithium Electrolytes

1. Corrosive Nature: Many lithium salts, such as LiPF6, can hydrolyze in the presence of moisture, forming hydrofluoric acid (HF), which is highly corrosive to metals like aluminum.
2. Residue Formation: During battery manufacturing, testing, or failure, residues of lithium salts and solvents may deposit on aluminum components, such as current collectors or casings, requiring effective cleaning solutions.
3. Compatibility with Materials: Cleaning residues without damaging the underlying aluminum, especially if it’s anodized or freshly abraded, requires a careful choice of cleaning agents.

By understanding the properties and challenges of lithium electrolytes, the proper cleaning and maintenance of aluminum components can prolong the life and efficiency of batteries.

Do you have a critical cleaning question for the experts at Alconox Inc.?  Search TechNotes to see if it’s been answered before or Ask Alconox.

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Citranox is a phosphate free, concentrated cleaner and metal brightener for high performance removal of metal oxides, scale, salts and inorganic residues in manual and ultrasonic cleaning. Corrosion inhibited and free rinsing for reliable results and no interfering residues. Ideal for trace metal analysis. USDA authorized. Dilute 2:100. pH 2.5

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