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Experimental Visualization and the Mechanism of Current‐Collector Geometry Effects on Ion Distribution and Device Longevity

Researchers experimentally mapped the three‑dimensional ion distribution in transition‑metal‑oxide cathodes and identified a pervasive “bottom effect,” where trapped cations accumulate far from the current‑collector pole, accelerating localized aging. Simulations had predicted uneven current density from collector geometry, but this study visualizes the phenomenon and introduces an “end reflection model” to explain it. By redesigning the collector with either an extra‑wide bottom or a small blank space, the bottom effect was eliminated, resulting in a two‑fold increase in cyclic lifespan. The work provides a practical pathway to improve electrochemical device durability.