Interfacial reactions take the lead: elucidating the dominant role of cathode–electrolyte interactions in triggering thermal runaway of high-nickel lithium-ion batteries

Key Points

• Thermal runaway occurs in high-nickel lithium-ion batteries primarily due to interfacial reactions, rather than bulk processes.
• Electrolyte decomposition accelerates cracking within the battery, leading to a self-sustaining degradation cycle.
• The study highlights the distinct mechanisms of thermal runaway for moderate-Ni versus high-Ni cathodes.
• Understanding these interactions may aid in developing safer battery technologies.