A thin, porous membrane that keeps the anode and cathode from touching (which would cause a short circuit) while allowing ions to pass through.

The negative electrode where electrons are released during discharge. In lithium-ion batteries, this is typically made of graphite or silicon .

The positive electrode that receives electrons. This is often made of metal oxides like lithium cobalt oxide or lithium iron phosphate .

The specific minerals inside a battery define its performance, weight, and cost. Lithium-ion batteries, which power most modern gadgets and electric vehicles (EVs), contain several key materials: Battery Passport Content Guidance